ZAMBIA: Home Affairs Ministry warns against disturbing public peace during AU meeting in Lusaka

By: Ollus Ndomu

Home Affairs Minister Jack Mwiimbu has warned citizens against disturbing public peace during the 4th African Union Mid-Year Coordination Meeting -AUMYC-.

Speaking Monday in an interview with the state television, ZNBC, Mwiimbu said the government was aware that some unscrupulous individuals and their supporters were planning to take advantage of the AU conference to disturb peace.

The Minister’s warning came hours after the Zambian Watchdog ran a story alleging that the immediate past governing party, the Patriotic Front -PF- and other satellite opposition parties had planned to carry out mass demonstrations between 14th to 18th August 2022, dates corresponding with the AUMYC that will be hosted in the capital, Lusaka.

It was alleged that opposition parties are planning to display banners in the Roads from the airport to the AUMYC venue; demanding government’s explanation on AFRICOM status in the region.

Students and confidants from the opposition political players including Socialist Party, Economic Front, PF, EFF and Pep are reportedly planning to gather in strategic positions to attract attention of the visiting heads of state.

Meanwhile, Mwiimbu sent a stern warning, saying security surveillance was already high in the capital and police will deal with everyone who will be found wanting.