GIDEON NYENDWA
NKANA Member of Parliament Binwell Mpundu has accused the governing UPND of using the justice system to suppress opposition voices, describing recent political developments as “evil” rather than politics.
Mr Mpundu alleged that there was selective application of the law, with the state targeting opposition leaders with charges such as tribalism, hate speech, defamation, and seditious practices, while ruling party members go unpunished for similar or worse actions.
“If indeed it is the law we on the opposition are breaking, continue sending us to jail,” Mr Mpundu said.
“But let your conscience guide you when you consider the tribalism, hate speech, and crimes committed by those in UPND.”
He questioned the silence of law enforcement agencies over statements made by UPND officials such as Education Minister Douglas Syakalima, who allegedly claimed that people from Luapula suffer from “mental poverty,” a remark Mr Mpundu labelled as tribal.
Mr Mpundu contrasted that with the prosecution of Lumezi MP Munir Zulu, who was facing charges for saying Lumezi people were more intelligent than those in Bweengwa.
He also criticised the government for failing to act on hate speech by UPND supporters, citing threats made against former President Edgar Lungu and verbal attacks on religious leaders such as the Bishop of Lusaka.
“Is it only hate speech when uttered by someone in the opposition? Is defamation only applicable when it involves us,” Mr Mpundu asked,
Mr Mpundu condemned what he perceives as politically motivated charges based on “mere suspicions” of proceeds of crime. He argued that several UPND leaders, if held to the same legal standard, would not be free today.
“This is not politics; this is evil. You have removed the freedoms we once all enjoyed – freedoms you benefitted from when you were in opposition,” he said.
He warned that the political climate being created under the current administration could sow long-lasting divisions, affecting future generations.
Mr Mpundu appealed for empathy and foresight, urging those in power to consider the impact of their actions on families, children, and the country’s political legacy.
“You have children who will one day have to explain the pain their parents inflicted. Karma will remind you of what you are doing today,” he said.
