DEFENCE PS DEFENDS ARMY CHIEF’S REMARKS ON MAINTAINING ELECTION ORDER

Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Maambo Hamaundu says there is nothing wrong with remarks attributed to Zambia Army Commander Lieutenant General Geoffrey Zyeele suggesting that the army will ensure and enforce order before, during, and after the August elections.

Lieutenant General Zyeele’s remarks have received backlash from a consortium of civil society organizations who argue that the statements are constitutionally improper, alarming, and represent a serious threat to the democratic character of the forthcoming elections and to the civil liberties of the Zambian people.

But in an interview with Phoenix News, Mr. Hamaundu explained that while the role of maintaining internal security falls squarely on the Zambia Police, the military can also, at the instruction of the Commander-in-Chief, participate in maintaining law and order.

He cited instances where the army was deployed to restore order in areas where illegal mining was being conducted as an example.

Mr. Hamaundu has wondered why a debate has risen over the remarks, saying the only people who must be intimidated or afraid are those who are probably planning to commit illegalities.

By Joseph Kaputula

PHOENIX NEWS