Disqualify UPND for perpetrating political violence, Given Lubinda tells ECZ

By MILLENNIUM REPORTER
THE Patriotic Front (PF) has challenged the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to disqualify the United Party for National Development (UPND) from participating in the forthcoming local government by-elections for allegedly perpetrating political violence.
Speaking during a press briefing in Lusaka on Wednesday, PF vice-president, Given Lubinda said the ECZ could only win public confidence through enforcement of the Electoral Code of Conduct by disqualifying the UPND.
“UPND know too well that they have completely lost the support of the people on the ground and I want to emphasise this, UPND is not the first, nor is it the second, nor is it the third government but it is the first government to lose popularity at such a fast rate,” Mr Lubinda said.
He accused the UPND of resorting to all kinds of underhand methods to win the forthcoming by-elections .
“They will do whatever they can to try and create a perception that they are still popular. In Chililabombwe, they are colluding with the police to stop our members from campaigning. Again on Monday 10th April, 2023, Chishimba Kambwili, Bowman Lusambo and other senior members of our party were blocked by the police from conducting a scheduled campaign meeting, which was to be convened in accordance with the Electoral Commission of Zambia’s election campaign timetable,” Mr Lubinda said.