GOVERNMENT has condemned t acts of political violence that took place at Kasempa Town council civic centre last week. Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Gary Nkombo has said in a statement that it is unfortunate that a group of political cadres could besiege the premises of the local authority.
The minister has expressed displeasure that cadres further demanded for the removal of council management members and other employees which he said is contrary to the Local Government Act No2 of 2019 under section 69(1) of the laws of Zambia.
He said he is saddened by the uncalled for behaviour by the cadres who disrupted the peaceful work atmosphere at the civic centre in their quest to remove council employees suspected to be members of the previous administration.
He has further expressed disappointment with the local police for failing to arrest any of the cadres when it was clear that the action was out of order as the situation could have resulted into a hostile environment for council employees. “As a ministry, we cannot tolerate such unwarranted behavior and illegal procession,” said in Mr Nkombo. He has called upon the police to act professionally and bring to book all those involved for taking the law in their hands to lock the civic center gate.
Mr Nkombo has implored individuals aggrieved with any issue to firmly follow correct procedures or submit petitions where necessary, through relevant channels without taking the law in their own hands. He stated that local quthorities play a critical role in service delivery to the people on behalf of the Central Government, and employees should be allowed to work professionally in a peaceful environment.
Mr Nkombo has assured employees in all Local Authorities in the country of maximum protection and has asked the affected officers at Kasempa Town Council to report back for work.
