The Zambian government has firmly warned political figures and groups against making reckless and inciteful statements that could threaten the nation’s peace and stability as the country prepares for its forthcoming parliamentary and local government by-elections. Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister, Jack Mwiimbu, emphasized the importance of peaceful electoral conduct and urged political players to report any incidents of violence or planned unrest to the police.
Speaking at a media briefing in Lusaka on Monday, Mwiimbu expressed serious concern over what he termed “irresponsible statements” made by certain individuals and political factions. These remarks were seen as attempts to stir unrest in areas where the by-elections will be held.
The minister specifically referred to a recent statement by Sean Tembo, the spokesperson for the Tonse Alliance, who declared that any perceived or actual aggression, whether from the UPND or law enforcement, would be met with “equal and proportionate force.” Tembo’s comments appeared to be in direct response to a prior warning issued by Zambia Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, urging political players to refrain from taking the law into their own hands.
Minister Mwiimbu firmly condemned such statements, stressing that they only served to jeopardize the peaceful election process. “As a government, we want to assure the public and stakeholders involved in the Pambashe and Petauke Central by-elections, as well as ward-level elections, that law and order will be maintained by security agencies to ensure peaceful elections,” Mwiimbu stated.
Although the minister did not disclose the number of police officers deployed, he assured that security forces were fully prepared to maintain law and order throughout the election period, including before, during, and after the voting. The government remains committed to upholding electoral rules and ensuring that the elections proceed in a peaceful and orderly manner.
Minister Mwiimbu also sought to address accusations regarding the impartiality of the Zambia Police Service. “The Zambia Police Service is not a partner of the UPND but an independent government department responsible for maintaining law and order in the country,” he clarified, dismissing any claims that the police were involved in partisan activities.
The government’s warning serves as a strong reminder that any attempts to disrupt the peace and stability of the country will not be tolerated. As Zambia approaches its by-elections, the call for political responsibility and adherence to law and order remains vital in safeguarding the nation’s democracy.
Keywords: Zambia government, by-elections, Jack Mwiimbu, reckless statements, political violence, Zambia news, security forces, peaceful elections, law and order, Sean Tembo, Tonse Alliance, UPND, Zambia Police Service, electoral rules, Petauke Central, Pambashe, political stability
