Inside the Chiwempala Fracas



Fr. Bwalya classes that the fracas was caused by a confrontation between police and unruly youths, not political provocation.

By Francis Maingaila, 

Lusaka – zambia24  --- (November 8, 2025) --  The United Party for National Development (UPND) has dismissed reports suggesting that the fracas which occurred during President Hakainde Hichilema’s visit to Chiwempala Market in Chingola was politically motivated, clarifying that the confusion arose from a safety incident involving a group of local youths.

In a statement issued by UPND Director General for Media, Fr. Frank Bwalya, the party explained that the President was in Chingola as part of his community outreach programme to interact with citizens and provide assistance to traders affected by the recent Chiwempala Market fire.

Fr. Bwalya said the disturbance began when a small group of boys climbed onto the roofs of nearby shops to get a clearer view of President Hichilema as he addressed the crowd. 

However, the roofs began to collapse under their weight, prompting police officers to intervene and order the youths to come down for their own safety.


“The youths resisted police instructions and began throwing stones, leading to a brief commotion,” Bwalya stated. “The situation caused temporary panic but was quickly contained by security personnel.”

He emphasized that no one was injured and no significant property damage occurred. The police were commended for their restraint and professionalism in managing the situation.

By the time the disturbance broke out, President Hichilema had already concluded his remarks and proceeded to Ndola’s Levy Mwanawasa Stadium to attend the Nkana versus Power Dynamos derby match.

Bwalya reaffirmed that the Chiwempala engagement remained peaceful and productive overall, highlighting that the President donated K10 million to help traders rebuild their businesses and reaffirmed government’s commitment to restoring livelihoods on the Copperbelt.


“The UPND wishes to assure the public that the incident was minor, isolated, and not politically driven,” Bwalya said. 

“It should not be exaggerated to undermine the success of the President’s visit, which was well-received by the people of Chiwempala.”

He further thanked the local community for their hospitality and support during the President’s visit, describing the engagement as evidence of the government’s continued effort to connect with citizens and respond to their challenges on the ground.


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