Zero Tolerance on Violence



Government condemns political violence, warns of firm legal action ahead of elections

By Francis Maingaila ♥️

Lusaka, Zambia24  - 24 -05-2026) - The Government has strongly condemned acts of political violence, saying it will not tolerate disorder and will deal decisively with perpetrators in accordance with the law.

Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Thabo Kawana, said concerns raised by stakeholders over recent incidents of political violence were being taken seriously, warning that such conduct threatens peace, stability, and democratic processes.

He said Zambia must not return to what he described as “dark days” of political intolerance and violence, adding that the current administration remains committed to enforcing law and order without fear or favour.

“That behaviour is condemned in the strongest terms possible… it will not be tolerated and will be dealt with decisively in accordance with the law,” he said.

Kawana said all perpetrators of political violence would be pursued regardless of political affiliation, noting that recent incidents, including those in Mazabuka, had already led to arrests and ongoing legal processes.

He attributed some of the tensions to heightened political competition ahead of elections, with thousands of applicants competing for parliamentary seats, which he said can create pressure within political parties. However, he stressed that competition must remain peaceful and within democratic norms.

He urged young people not to be used as instruments of violence, calling on them to report any form of provocation to law enforcement agencies.

“Do not allow yourselves to be used as political tools… when people want to recruit you for violence, ask them to send their own children first,” he said.

Kawana further highlighted government progress under President Hakainde Hichilema, including job creation, expanded Constituency Development Fund allocations, and free education reforms.

He said the President had committed to ensuring free, fair, credible, and peaceful elections, warning that anyone engaging in political violence would face the full force of the law.

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