from ARNOLD MULENGA in Lusaka, Zambia
Zambia Bureau
LUSAKA, (CAJ News) – AN order by the police on the opposition to halt anti-government protests is seen as the further entrenchment of dictatorship in Zambia.
The Zambia Police Service (ZPS) has warned the Patriotic Front (PF), the biggest opposition, against such protests, which the party claims is for the state to “give the PF” back to the people.
PF accuses the state, under President Hakainde Hichilema, of infiltrating the party, resulting in it being torn between factions, including one seen loyal to Hichilema’s administration and the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND).
One allegedly aligned to the government is led by Robert Chabinga.
Hence PF wants to start the nationwide protests at his house.
Chabinga has been quoted as saying, “I have directed Zambia Police to close PF Secretariat in Lusaka.”
This has fuelled speculation police are engaged in partisan party politics and not impartial.
Graphel Musamba, the Inspector General of Police, said, “Any attempt to organise or incite unlawful demonstrations, intimidate individuals, or cause chaos will be treated as a serious criminal matter. Those found wanting will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the laws of Zambia.”
He said ZPS would not tolerate any actions or rhetoric aimed at undermining public order and the safety of citizens.
“When law enforcement moves in to act, those responsible should not cry foul, as their conduct has clearly shown intent to cause public disorder. The police will act firmly and decisively.”
Musamba has directed all Commanding Officers and operational units across the country to “remain on high alert, conduct proactive intelligence-led policing and take firm but lawful action against any person or group that willfully seeks to incite, organise, or perpetrate violence or disorder.”
Critic Thandiwe Ngoma, accused the police of involvement in factionalism.
“It is becoming painfully clear that the Zambia Police Service, once seen as the people’s shield, has been captured,” she said.
“The very institution meant to protect the public and uphold justice now appears to serve political interests,” Ngoma added.
She said Musamba seemed increasingly entangled in the partisan politics of the ruling UPND.
“While every Zambian knows that top security appointments are political, professionalism and integrity should still guide the officeholder. Sadly, that seems to have vanished,” Ngoma said.
Hichilema and UPND have been in power since 2021 after defeating PF.
The next polls are in 2026.
– CAJ News