By AARON CHIYANZO in Mumbwa
UPND should not dare the State to act on its continued butchering of innocent citizens because I can unleash legitimate force which would not augur well, President Edgar Lungu has said.
President Lungu said he was saddened with reports of UPND cadres butchering people, damaging property and burning cars.
He warned that should the thuggery continue, he would be forced to certain powers that would make him look bad.
The Head of State warned that violence could lead to civil war if tolerated.
President Lungu said this when he met Senior Chief Shakumbila, Chief Chibuluma, Chief Moono, Chief Kaindu, Chief Mulendema and Chieftainess Kabulwe Bulwe in Mumbwa yesterday.
He said he would not tolerate the violent behavior of the UPND and called on traditional leaders to counsel the opposition party.
President Lungu warned UPND not to dare the State with its continued violent behavior.
“I have received reports of UPND beating up people in Nangoma, Kembe, Chavuma, Ikelenge and other places. I’m getting reports that UPND have gone mad, but they should not dare the State. As President, I can unleash legitimate force and it will not look good,” he said.
President Lungu expressed disappointment that the UPND leadership was tolerating the violent behavior of its cadres. And Senior Chief Shakumbila who spoke on behalf of the traditional leaders said bloodshed should not be tolerated.
He condemned attacks on innocent people and destruction of property by UPND cadres in Nangoma.
“I received reports that UPND beat up people in Nangoma. We don’t want bloodshed,” he said.
Earlier, President Lungu said he was on a campaign against the Covid19 pandemic. He said as head of government he needed to champion the fight against the pandemic.
“Government is in place despite the dissolution of Parliament and as President Iam the head so I cannot just stay home,” he said.
President Lungu also said government’s gesture to empower headmen with bicycles was not a campaign gimmick because the program started a long time.
While in Mumbwa, President Lungu toured Mumbwa New Market and met the clergy.
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