By Ollus Ndomu
Lusaka, Zambia – The political atmosphere in Zambia has reached a boiling point this week following a series of dramatic developments involving former President Edgar Lungu and the current administration led by President Hakainde Hichilema. Lungu’s call for early elections, coupled with allegations of a government plot to arrest him, has sparked significant controversy and heightened tensions across the nation.
Former President Lungu’s Allegations
Former President Edgar Lungu, who served from 2015 until his defeat in the 2021 elections, has accused the Zambian government of planning to arrest him under dubious circumstances.
In a statement posted on his official Facebook page, Lungu claimed that police have opened 25 dockets against him based on complaints from members of the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND).
Lungu expressed grave concerns about the police’s alleged intentions to arrest him unexpectedly in the middle of the night, describing the move as an ambush meant to embarrass and detain him forcefully.
“My question is, why are President Hakainde Hichilema and the Zambia Police Inspector General planning to ambush me at night, abduct, embarrass, and forcefully detain me like a hardcore criminal?” Lungu asked.
“Where is the respect for the office of the former President in Zambia today if a sitting president can endorse a malicious ambush and barbaric arrest of a former head of state in the fashion I hear?”
Lungu, who has faced what he describes as continuous harassment since leaving office, cited various instances of unconstitutional actions, including being barred from morning workouts, denied the right to travel, and prevented from making courtesy calls.
UKA’s Response and Call for Early Elections
In a robust response, the United Kwacha Alliance (UKA) Assembly of Presidents expressed deep concern over the rumored call-out or arrest of Lungu. The UKA criticized the shrinking democratic space in Zambia, which they claim has robbed citizens of their freedom of expression and association.
“The UPND government in its leadership’s naivety must be aware of the far-reaching consequences of the move to arrest President Edgar Chagwa Lungu for no offense committed,” stated Sakwiba Sikota, Chairperson of the UKA.
“The public is aware of similar pronouncements made by President Hakainde Hichilema prior to the 2021 general elections, and no charges were preferred against him.”
The UKA further warned that denying citizens’ rights of association and assembly could lead to increased political risk, affecting the country’s sovereign rating and deterring investment. They also called for early elections before 2026, citing the economic, political, and spiritual suffering of Zambians under what they described as the “brutal despotic UPND regime.”
Government’s Silence and Rising Tensions
Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa has not yet commented on Lungu’s allegations, leaving a cloud of uncertainty and speculation.
The silence from the government has done little to ease the heightened political tensions.
Supporters of Lungu and the opposition have rallied behind him, expressing concerns over potential abuses of power and the weaponization of law enforcement against political critics.
The former president’s call for Zambians to stand up in defense of peace, democracy, and the constitution has resonated with many, further fueling the political fervor.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Zambia can maintain its democratic values and stability amid these growing political challenges.
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