By Staff Reporter
UPND deputy media director Cheelo Katambo has attributed the resurgence of thuggery activities to the return of former president Edgar Lungu to active politics.
In a statement, Katambo alleged that certain elements within Lungu’s party were orchestrating violence to destabilize the government and undermine the UPND’s mandate.
He denied the party’s involvement in thuggery activities blaming infiltrators from other parties for the escalating violence in certain regions.
Katambo stated that violence was not inherent to the UPND’s DNA, pointing to President Hakainde Hichilema’s directive to refrain from violent acts.
He stressed that genuine UPND supporters had adhered to this directive, while those engaged in violence were not true members of the party.
“Rather, they are individuals from other violent parties seeking to cause chaos and discredit the government. President Hichilema has also urged UPND supporters to uphold non-violent principles, emphasizing that engaging in violence perpetuates aggression and undermines the vision for a united and prosperous Zambia,” read the statement in part.
Katambo has called upon law enforcement agencies to take decisive action against perpetrators of violence, regardless of political affiliation.
He state that the UPND remained committed to fostering a culture of tolerance, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence, and urged the public to remain vigilant against divisive tactics.
Katambo stated that the party reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and democratic principles, seeking to deliver prosperity and progress for all Zambians.
The deputy media director also emphasized the importance of vigilance within party structures, urging members to be wary of divisive elements seeking to infiltrate their ranks.
“It is imperative that we remain vigilant and ensure that any individuals with intentions to sow discord are swiftly identified and removed from our party structures,” Katambo stated.
“We cannot allow our party to be hijacked by those who seek to undermine our unity and progress.”
Katambo further called on law enforcement agencies to step up their efforts in addressing the root causes of the escalating violence.
“The systematic and well-choreographed nature of these activities points to the involvement of external forces,” he noted.
“It is imperative that law enforcement agencies intensify their efforts to dismantle these networks and bring the perpetrators to justice.”
In addition to government intervention, Katambo emphasized the need for civil society organizations, church leaders, and traditional authorities to play a proactive role in promoting peace and stability.
“We call upon civil society, church leaders, and traditional authorities to provide equal measures of scrutiny to both the ruling party and the opposition,” he stated. “It is essential that perpetrators of divisive rhetoric and actions are held accountable, regardless of their political affiliation.”
Katambo reiterated the UPND’s commitment to fostering a culture of peace and unity and called on all stakeholders to join hands in safeguarding Zambia’s democratic principles and values.
