LUSAKA - The Zambia Police Service has condemned recent incidents of political violence recorded in Shibuyunji, Livingstone, and Luampa districts, directing commanding officers to arrest all those responsible and bring them before the courts without delay.
In a statement issued on August 6, 2026, Inspector General of Police Graphel C. Musamba said acts of political violence have no place in Zambia's democratic process and reaffirmed the Service's commitment to maintaining law and order before, during, and after the 2026 General Election.
The Police Service also aligned itself with President Hakainde Hichilema's recent warning that violence, intimidation, and lawlessness by any political party, candidate, or supporter would not be tolerated.
"The law will be applied fairly, professionally and impartially, without regard to political affiliation," Mr. Musamba said.
The Inspector General said all commanding officers in the affected areas had been instructed to ensure that every person involved in the reported incidents is apprehended and prosecuted.
"No individual should imagine that political affiliation provides immunity from criminal prosecution. Anyone found wanting will face the full force of the law," he said.
Mr. Musamba further announced that the Police Service has launched a comprehensive review of the crowd control and public order management operation conducted in Mongu and Kalabo during the Tonse-Pamodzi Alliance campaign rally, where tear smoke was discharged.
He said the review would also examine allegations of disorderly conduct by some political supporters toward police officers during the operation.
According to the Inspector General, the review aims to establish whether the operation complied with legal requirements governing public order management and the professional standards expected of the Zambia Police Service.
The findings, he said, will determine whether any further action is required.
The Police Service also dismissed social media reports claiming that someone died during the Mongu operation, describing the claims as false.
"No death was recorded in connection with the operation," Mr. Musamba said, urging members of the public to rely on verified information issued through official police communication channels.
As the country prepares for the August 13 General Election, the Inspector General called on political parties, candidates, supporters, and the public to reject violence, exercise restraint, and uphold the rule of law.
He said the Zambia Police Service remains committed to providing a safe and secure electoral environment where all political parties can campaign freely and lawfully while taking decisive action against anyone who threatens public peace or the integrity of the electoral process.
Source: Zambia Police Service | By: Graphel C. Musamba