LIVINGSTONE - United Party for National Development (UPND) Livingstone Central parliamentary candidate Gracious Mayangwa has condemned violence that erupted during the receiving of ballot papers at the Livingstone Civic Centre, saying the constituency will not allow "thugs" to undermine the peace enjoyed throughout the campaign period.
Mayangwa was reacting to an incident involving supporters of an independent candidate during the ballot paper receiving process.
He said Livingstone has remained one of the constituencies where campaigns have been conducted peacefully and should not be turned into a centre of political violence by a handful of individuals.
"We have enjoyed peaceful campaigns in Livingstone Central, and we will not allow anyone to drag our people into the dark politics of intimidation, lawlessness and violence," Mayangwa said.
He stressed that elections in a democratic society should be decided through the ballot box rather than acts of violence.
"The people of Livingstone deserve an election decided by the ballot, not by fear. Violence, thuggery and political intimidation have no place in our constituency," he said.
Mayangwa has called on the Zambia Police Service to thoroughly investigate the alleged violence and ensure that anyone found responsible is arrested and prosecuted.
"I call upon the Zambia Police Service to thoroughly investigate this incident and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought before the law. No one should be above the law, regardless of political affiliation," he said.
He also appealed to voters to remain calm and resist any attempts by politicians or their supporters to incite violence before, during and after the August 13 general election.