By Mubanga Mubanga
Catholic Bishop of Mpika Reverend Edwin Malandu says he has reported cadres belonging to a major political party who invaded Yusufu Radio, with the intent of stoppin Citizens First (CF) party leader Harry Kalaba’s scheduled radio program to the police.
In a letter dated August 26, 2024, addressed to all priests and Catholics under the Diocese of Mpika, Bishop Malandu stated that the behavior of cadres suspected to be of a known major political party, caused disruption and distress to security personnel at the Radio Station and risked the Radio station properties.
On Sunday, cadres wearing red regalia attempted to disrupt a scheduled radio program that was to feature Kalaba at Yusufu Radio.
“The behavior of these individuals had caused significant distress and disruption, not only to our security personnel but also to the overall safety and security of our property, especially Yusufu Radio,” Rev Malandu stated.
“We have officially lodged a complaint to the police, here in Mpika to investigate the matter and take appropriate actions against individuals involved.”
Rev Malandu further stated that despite pleas by the guard to act calmly and professionally, the intruders continued acting aggressively and even threatened staff and residents who stay at the Compound with offensive weapons.
He further stated that the cadres removed the guard who was at the gate and started screening vehicles which were going to the Radio station premises, with the sole purpose of disrupting the program which was scheduled to air on the radio station featuring Kalaba.
“According to our security guard these unruly individuals breached the gate of the premises and removed him, took over the task access in their apparent to disrupt a political program which was scheduled to air on Yusufu Radio featuring Citizens First President, Mr Harry Kalaba,” he stated.
Rev Mulandu urged the youths in Mpika to reject violence being exploited by individuals with political agendas.
