The Zambia Police Service in Chipata has refuted allegations made by the opposition New Congress Party (NCP) that it was unfairly denied permission to hold a rally in Chipata City. Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer, Robertson Mweemba, clarified that the NCP leadership failed to meet key requirements for obtaining a permit, such as providing detailed information about the event, including the list of speakers and the specific venue for the rally.
Mweemba explained that the failure of the NCP to cooperate and submit the necessary documentation led to the denial of the permit. He emphasized that the decision was not politically motivated but rather a result of the opposition’s non-compliance with standard procedures.
However, this development has sparked criticism from the NCP, with party President Peter Chanda accusing the police of acting unfairly. Chanda, supported by members of the Patriotic Front Party, described the actions of the police as dictatorial and reflective of oppressive behavior under the United Party for National Development (UPND) government.
The incident has stirred political tensions, with opposition parties raising concerns about freedom of assembly and the alleged use of state apparatus to suppress political dissent. Both the NCP and the Patriotic Front are calling for transparency and fairness in the granting of permits for public gatherings, asserting that the police’s actions could undermine democratic principles in the country.
By Samuel Khwawe