By REBECCA MUSHOTA –

in Mwense
CHIEFS in Mwense District have condemned politicians perpetuating violence and those accusing the Government of not providing a conducive environment for fair campaigns.
The chiefs said yesterday that it was unfortunate that some politicians are using violence as a means to campaigning, and at the same time accusing the Government of not providing an equal playing field.
The traditional leaders are chiefs Mulundu, Kashiba, Lubunda and acting Chief Lukwesa.
Chief Mulundu spoke on behalf of the traditional leaders during a meeting with President Edgar Lungu at Mulundu School in Mwense.
“The level playing field is there for all to see. Politicians have to be objective and just share their message with the electorate and not use violence as a means to get into power,” Chief Mulundu said.
The traditional leader said it was unfortunate that some political players did not have a good message to share with the voters, thereby engaging in violence as a means of creating an unstable campaign period.
Chief Mulundu said Zambia was a country that had an unbroken record of peace and it was vital that the status quo was maintained.
He said it was unfair that some political stakeholders were accusing President Lungu of sending the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) to seize property at the Post Newspapers.
He said it was important for the ZRA to undertake their work and enable the Government to deliver services.
“We, therefore, appeal to the ZRA not to relent, but collect the taxes owed,” Chief Mulundu said.
He also said he was a proud Zambian considering the development the PF had brought to Zambia in the past five years.
The Government has constructed schools, hospitals and roads.
Chief Mulundu appealed to the Government to establish a water reservoir for the 40,000 people in Mulundu area.
He said there was also need for a police post and revamping Mambilima Special School.
President Lungu said he was hopeful that all traditional leaders were sharing the same message of peace.
The Head of State said Zambians should denounce politicians responsible for perpetuating violence.
Mr Lungu said chiefs were the custodians of democracy and should, therefore, promote peace.
On the chiefs’ social demands, President Lungu said the Government was doing everything possible to deliver.