UPND VIOLENT ATTACK ON SP SHOCKS CHIENGE RESIDENTS

Chienge, Wednesday (May 1, 2024)
MEDIA STATEMENT

Residents of Munwa Ward in Chienge District, Luapula Province, are living in fear following an unprecedented violent attack on a Socialist Party (SP) Camp in the run up to tomorrow’s Ward by-elections.

One of the victims, Benard Kasongo, aged 79, said it was his first time in life that he was stoned on the head by cadres suspected to have been taken to the area by Sports Minister Elvis Nkandu.

Mr. Kasongo said the perpetrators of violence are not residents of Chienge but were ferried by the Cabinet Minister.

On Thursday, May 2, 2024, by-election polls will be held in Luangwa Ward in Chama District of Eastern Province, Munwa Ward in Chienge District of Luapula Province, Kaunga Ward in Luangwa District of Lusaka Province, Kaela Ward in Lupososhi District of Northern Province, Chikenge Ward in Kabompo District of North Western Province, Malala Ward in Chikankata District of Southern Province, Luumbo Wards in Gwembe District of Southern Province and Ndanda Ward in Limulunga District of Western Province.

And commenting on the development, Socialist Party (SP) Director Media Brian Hapunda said his party is known for its stance against electoral violence.

Mr. Hapunda said the position is rooted in the party’s commitment to preserving democratic values and promoting peaceful political processes.

He said the SP has criticized the ECZ for what it perceives as partiality and has accused the ruling party, the United Party for National Development (UPND), of exploiting poverty and hunger during by-elections through tactics like offering handouts and resorting to intimidation to secure votes.

Mr. Hapunda said the SP’s stance on denouncing electoral violence is part of its larger advocacy for a society where the rule of law prevails, government accountability is upheld, and democratic principles are respected.

This is contained in a statement issued by SP Director Media Brian Hapunda.
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