LUSAKA - The Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD) has raised concern over what it describes as a deteriorating democratic environment under the current administration, alleging police brutality, intimidation and political violence against opposition leaders.
In a statement attributed to Pauline Ngozoh, the MMD issued a final warning to Inspector General of Police Graphel Musamba, alleging that the Zambia Police Service is being used to suppress opposition activities.
The party warned that if what it described as the weaponisation of the police against opposition political parties does not stop, it would work with other democratic forces to pursue international accountability mechanisms over alleged human rights abuses and state-sponsored violence.
The MMD cited recent incidents in Western Province, alleging that UPND cadres attacked the convoy of Tonse/NRPUP presidential candidate Brian Mundubile while police officers were present.
The party further alleged that police disrupted notified campaign rallies in Mongu and Kalabo, where tear smoke was discharged.
The MMD described the incidents as a breakdown of the rule of law, particularly because the tear smoke was discharged in the presence of Mr. Mundubile and senior citizen Prince Akashambatwa Mbikusita-Lewanika, a co-founder of the MMD and member of the Lozi Royal Family.
The party also referred to an incident in Chingola, Copperbelt Province, involving Citizens First presidential candidate Harry Kalaba.
According to the MMD, police blocked Mr. Kalaba from conducting campaign activities despite the party following the campaign calendar issued by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ).
The party argued that interference with opposition campaigns creates an uneven political playing field and could undermine the credibility of the electoral process.
The MMD stressed that political violence and regional divisions have no place in Zambia, noting that citizens from different parts of the country are connected through intermarriage, shared heritage and national identity.
The party has demanded that the Inspector General of Police:
Direct all commanding officers to respect the ECZ electoral calendar and allow opposition candidates to campaign freely without intimidation.
Ensure the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible for political violence in Western Province.
Call on the ECZ to publicly condemn any police interference with its official campaign programme.
The MMD further argued that the Inspector General bears command responsibility for the actions of police officers under his authority and warned that the use of state institutions to suppress political opponents could attract international scrutiny.
The party called on Zambians to remain resolute, saying violence, tear gas and alleged police blockades would not silence calls for political change.
The MMD also expressed solidarity with opposition leaders it said were facing persecution.
Source: MUVI TV | By: Pauline Ngozoh