Thu, 29 Jun 2017 13:30:55 +0000
By OSCAR MALIPENGA & By JUSTINA MULENGA
IT is extremely disappointing that intolerance amongst some of the supporters of the two political parties has reached shocking levels of fighting each other even on traditional solemn and dignified occasions such as during funerals and at cemeteries, Home Affairs Minister Stephen Kampyongo told Parliament yesterday.
He said traditionally, funerals were sacred and brought all sections of the people together in remembrance and out of respect for the departed beloved ones.
He said the reported violence that occurred at the Memorial Park Cemetery and elsewhere demonstrated the breakdown of morals in Zambia which President Edgar Lungu recently asked everyone to uphold and defend.
“We must arrest the moral decay in our midst. It is for this reason that my government cannot and shall not tolerate criminality regardless of who the perpetrator might be. I am delighted that President Lungu has condemned political violence and called on all our people to refuse to engage in any forms of violence.
“I cannot, therefore, help but call on all political leaders without any exception and indeed those civil society organisations including religious organisation to preach peace. Violence only begets violence and has never resolved any problem,” he said.
Mr. Kampyongo said the clash between PF and UPND was uncalled for.
He, however, said the Zambia Police Service had instituted investigations into the criminal activity and shall in due course bring the criminal elements operating under the cover of political parties to book.
Mr. Kampyongo was responding to a point of order raised by Mwembeshi member of Parliament Machila Jamba on the persistent occurrence of violence particularly between the supporters of PF and UPND.
And Law Association of Zambia President, Linda Kasonde says Zambia should reflect on the recent events and take a stand against violence and preserve peace and unity the country deserves.
In a statement, Ms. Kasonde said the association was saddened by reports in the media and information circulating on social media on the clash between members of PF and UPND that happened on Saturday, 24th June, 2017 at Leopards Hill Memorial Park during the burial of the late Clance Zulu.
She said LAZ was disheartened that such violent activities took place at the graveyard during a solemn occasion which was supposed to be respected by all regardless of political affiliation.
