Officers from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) in Livingstone have closed the Musi-oa-Tunya National Park’s access gates in protest over what they describe as poor conditions of service.
The Southern Regional Office has equally been closed as officers hold a sitting protest.
The protesting officers have also put up notices demanding the resignation of Tourism Minister Rodney Sikumba and Permanent Secretary Evans Muhanga.
They argue that despite being trained and armed, they are not recognized as part of the security wing and feel neglected within the current system.
The officers express confidence in Lands and Natural Resources Minister Sylvia Masebo, saying that they believe she would be a more suitable Minister for Tourism.
They also express solidarity towards the department’s Director, Dominic Chiinda, saying no one should touch him but the reasons behind this warning remain unclear.
Meanwhile, several tour operators were earlier prevented from entering the park as a result of the protest.
Ministry of Tourism is yet to comment on the matter.
By Gabriel Josias Muuba
