LUSAKA - President Hakainde Hichilema has strongly condemned the recent wave of political violence reported in several parts of Zambia, warning that acts of intimidation, lawlessness and attacks on political opponents will not be tolerated ahead of the August 13 General Election.
In a statement issued on Tuesday evening, President Hichilema described reports of political violence from across the country as "deeply concerning," stressing that every political party, candidate and supporter has a lawful right to campaign during the period allocated by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ).
He said anyone attempting to disrupt the democratic process was breaking the law and would face the full consequences.
The President's statement comes amid heightened political tensions following several violent incidents reported during the campaign period.
Among the latest incidents was an attack in Luampa District in Western Province, where National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP) presidential candidate Brian Mundubile and members of his campaign team were reportedly attacked while campaigning. A Zambia Police Service officer was also caught up in the violence.
In a separate incident, musician General Kanene sustained serious head injuries after he was allegedly attacked while performing at a campaign event for an independent parliamentary candidate in Mwembeshi East.
Other reported incidents have occurred in Magoye, Kanyama and Kaputa, where confrontations have reportedly resulted in injuries, destruction of property and, in some cases, fatalities.
The President also recalled an incident during his working visit to Chingola, where stones were allegedly thrown towards him, forcing his security detail to escort him to safety. Police later arrested several suspects in connection with the incident.
Another widely reported case involved former Local Government and Rural Development Minister Gary Nkombo, who was assaulted while filing his nomination papers as an independent parliamentary candidate for Mazabuka Central Constituency.
Meanwhile, Nkana Member of Parliament Binwell Mpundu questioned the President's response to the escalating violence, alleging that attacks had continued while the Head of State remained silent.
In a statement posted on social media, Mr. Mpundu referred to the reported attack on Brian Mundubile's convoy in Luampa and the assault on General Kanene, while also questioning whether the recent rise in political violence could be linked to attempts to disrupt the electoral process. He did not provide evidence to support the claim.
President Hichilema has since appealed to all political parties, candidates and supporters to conduct peaceful and responsible campaigns within the confines of the law.
He urged citizens to safeguard Zambia's peace, unity and democratic values as the country prepares to vote next Thursday.
The President's appeal comes as civil society organisations, religious bodies and election observers continue to call for restraint and respect for the rule of law during the final stages of the election campaign.
Source: Hakainde Hichilema (Statement)