INVESTIGATE POLITICAL VIOLENCE IN FEIRA, DEMANDS KALABA’S PARTY

By Kalobwe Bwalya

THE Citizens First (CF) has implored police to investigate and arrest those involved in the political violence that characterized Kaunga Ward of Feira Constituency in Luangwa District last week.

CF party provincial chairman Clement Luweni alleged that suspected UPND members resorted to physical violence; attacking and beating up members from his party without any reason.

Mr. Luweni stated that CF Provincial Secretary Carlos Chishiki and Edson Kombo who is the national mobilization Chairman were attacked in full view of the Lusaka Province Minister, Sheal Mulyata.

He said this brazen display of aggression and disregard for democracy was unacceptable in any civilized society especially in Zambia.

He said as a representative of the party, the CF pledged unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring a level playing field for all parties involved in the forthcoming by-elections.

He added that it was imperative that fair and free elections were safeguarded against such acts of violence and intimidation, which only served to undermine the democratic foundation of the nation.

 “We stand united in our condemnation of such despicable behavior and call for justice to be served swiftly and decisively. Every citizen as representatives of the Lusaka Province Citizens First Party, we assert our unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring a level playing field for all parties involved in the forthcoming by-elections,” he said.

And Mr. Luweni said every citizen had the right to participate in the democratic process peacefully and without fear of harm or intimidation.

He, however, urged all political parties and their members to engage in a civil and respectful electoral process by respecting the rights and dignity of every citizen.

Meanwhile, some suspected UPND cadres in Kanyama’s Masauko area have been accused of harassing some aligned Patriotic Front members.

But UPND Lusaka province youth chairman Anderson Banda and Kanyama ward councillor Bruce Chanda said they were not aware because no one had reported the matter to their offices.

However, Mr. Banda warned that the UNPD party would not allow such lawlessness and warned that anyone found wanting would be arrested.

In an interview, Mr. Banda stated that attacking innocent people was a criminal offence that this would not be tolerated as that was unpatriotic and inhuman.

He said he would not allow such acts to continue but would ensure that police moved in and bring the culprits to book.

“President Hakainde Hichilema is the beacon of peace and it is very sad that despite the PF being removed from power due to violent cadres, some disgruntled youths are still perpetrating violence which will not be allowed,” Mr. Banda said.