By MILDRED KATONGO and RABECCA CHIPANTA –
POLICE are saddened that political party members have resorted to attacking officers despite the law-enforcement agency allowing gatherings in conformity with the requirements of the Public Order Act (POA).
. KANGANJA
Recently, Inspector General of Police Kakoma Kanganja said police would not stop the United Party for National Development (UPND) from exercising its political freedoms as long as the actions were within the confines of the law.
Mr Kanganja said in an interview yesterday that it was unfortunate that political party members were venting their anger on police officers who were deployed to ensure law and order.
He said what transpired on Sunday in Matero Township where Patriotic Front (PF) and UPND supporters clashed and in the process attacking the officers was unfortunate and uncalled-for.
He said the escalation of violence was worrying at the current rate.
“As police we are indeed saddened that people have resorted to attacking their own police officers who are there to protect them. I would like to urge all peace-loving Zambians to strongly condemn these barbaric attacks on the police,” Mr Kanganja said.
“The police allowed the gatherings in conformity with the requirements of the POA, which people have been accusing the police of not applying it fairly, but what do we see? The freedom is being abused,” he said.
Mr Kanganja said police were repositioning themselves and would respond to such attacks accordingly.
He said President Edgar Lungu assured the Police Command that he would equip the police adequately and ensure that law and order was maintained to prevent any disorderliness ahead of the general elections.
Mr Kanganja assured the nation that there would be peace and order because the Police Command was equal to the task.
Separately, Home Affairs Minister Davies Mwila described as unfortunate that people had resorted to attacking each other.
Mr Mwila said such acts were not good for the country as the nation was heading towards the polls.
The minister further requested all political parties in the country to exercise peace as this was a crucial year for the country.
“We have enough police officers that will help maintain law and order before, during and after the elections. Our officers will ensure that order is maintained,” he said.
