Rule of Law in Shambles
…….Kawambwa Campaigns Expose State of Misrule
Zambia’s fragile democracy is under siege as fresh allegations of selective justice, political violence, and police bias emerge from the Kawambwa by-elections. Patriotic Front (PF) Legal Chairman and Lukashya MP Hon. George Chisanga has painted a harrowing picture of a nation spiraling into chaos.
In an emotionally charged statement, Hon. Chisanga described recent events as a dangerous precedent threatening to derail the rule of law. “Wherever these events are taking us must be a very dark place which will make politics and voting dirtier than one can imagine,” he warned.
One of the most alarming incidents involved Mwense Mayor Chikota, a member of the ruling UPND. Chikota allegedly made death threats to PF MPs Hon. Francis Mulenga and Hon. Kabaso Kampampi in unprovoked phone calls, insisting his threats should be taken seriously.
The MPs provided police with a recorded conversation as evidence, but the mayor was neither arrested nor questioned. Instead, he brazenly continued campaigning at Mpota Primary School, a mere stone’s throw from Kawambwa Police Station.
The police’s inaction on such a grave matter has raised serious concerns about their independence and commitment to justice.
The campaigns were marred by shocking incidents of violence. Prominent opposition figures, including Sean Tembo, were reportedly attacked within Kawambwa Police premises by known UPND cadres. Despite clear evidence, no arrests were made.
Similarly, President Peter Chanda of the New Congress Party and a PF blogger, Inonge, were allegedly assaulted by UPND youths. Medical reports confirmed their injuries, but the perpetrators remain free.
“This selective justice is a blatant mockery of democracy,” Chisanga said, questioning why known attackers walk free while victims are denied justice.
In a bizarre turn of events, opposition leaders were arrested for raising legitimate concerns. Hon. Jean Chisenga, Celestin Mukandila, and Peter Chanda were detained for inquiring about suspected weaponry allegedly smuggled into Kawambwa by UPND cadres. The weapons were reportedly used in attacks on opposition supporters, yet the police failed to investigate the allegations.
Meanwhile, Hon. Mumbi Phiri faced police summons for merely questioning why UPND officials were allegedly collecting National Registration Cards (NRCs) and voter cards from citizens the night before elections.
These incidents underscore the growing perception of Zambia as a nation where laws are applied selectively, shielding ruling party loyalists while punishing opposition voices. Hon. Chisanga did not mince his words, calling the police complicit in undermining democracy.
“The police force has become a tool for political persecution,” he said. “Their refusal to act against ruling party cadres while targeting the opposition is unacceptable and dangerous.”
The events in Kawambwa have sparked outrage among Zambians who see their democratic institutions under attack. Political analysts warn that this pattern of misrule will deepen divisions and foster a culture of impunity.
Hon. Chisanga concluded with a sobering reminder: “If left unchecked, these actions will plunge our nation into chaos. Zambians must rise to defend the rule of law and demand accountability.”
As the dust settles on the Kawambwa campaigns, one question looms large: Can Zambia reclaim its democratic principles, or has the rule of law been permanently sacrificed on the altar of partisan politics?
KUMWESU DEC 23, 2024
Rule of Law in Shambles
…. Kawambwa Campaigns Expose State of Misrule
