A planned protest by the Socialist Party Youth over alleged government inaction regarding drug theft in public health facilities was halted Friday morning by a heavy police presence at Lusaka’s Freedom Statue.
Police Public Relations Officer Rae Hamoonga stated that the deployment was a preventive measure, citing concerns that the protest could disrupt public peace.
Socialist Party President Dr. Fred M’membe condemned the police action, accusing the state of infringing on the citizens’ right to peaceful assembly.
This development follows the recent suspension of K1.4 billion in aid by the U.S. government over accountability and governance concerns.
By Victoria Kayeye Yambani
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