295 Views Some Zambian citizens on social media have lambasted President Hakainde Hichilema after former Mazabuka Central legislator Garry Nkombo was attacked during his nomination papers filing process. Following the incident, Hichilema castigated the act, warned the perpetrators and directed the law enforcement agencies to act swiftly and make sure that those involved are brought […]

295 Views

Some Zambian citizens on social media have lambasted President Hakainde Hichilema after former Mazabuka Central legislator Garry Nkombo was attacked during his nomination papers filing process.

Following the incident, Hichilema castigated the act, warned the perpetrators and directed the law enforcement agencies to act swiftly and make sure that those involved are brought to book.

“Fellow citizens,

President Hakainde Hichilema

“A few days ago, I made it clear that electoral lawlessness will not be tolerated and that all perpetrators, regardless of political affiliation or social standing, would face the full force of the law. That position remains firm and unchanged.

“The scenes circulating on social and other media of individuals attempting to prevent the lawful filing of nominations are unacceptable, undemocratic, and a direct violation of the rule of law.

“I therefore expect law enforcement agencies to move swiftly and professionally to arrest all those responsible. Zambia is governed by laws, not intimidation, violence, or mob conduct.

“Let me be unequivocal: those who wish to test this Government’s resolve to maintain law and order are entirely on their own. The State will act firmly and decisively against all forms of electoral violence and disorder.

“Hakainde Hichilema,

President of the Republic of Zambia,” he wrote.

However, some citizens lambasted him for seemingly acting like a hypocrite.

Moses Mpweto said the law enforcement agencies were actually present when Nkombo was attacked.

“The law enforcers were actually present just watching while the Angels conducted their evangelism,” he said.

Tressford Bwalya said:

“Words becomes meaningless when they are not backed up with actions.

“Zimbabwean Proverb.”

David Kakoma chipped in: “Mr president …A directive like ” I’m just giving law enforcers just an hour to arrest those guys would have made more sense.”

Mateo Zulu said: “You talk very nicely, problem is action on the ground!”

Kalast Habunzuka added a voice: “That guy manhandling nkombo was once your bodyguard.

“He feels he’s untouchable.”

Bertha Mbewe said: “The police officers were actually waiting for this statement…..now they il act like Kafinsa/Lilayi/Sondela pipo we know.”

Mary Kamizhi said: “Daddy we are just waiting for you to prove your statement otherwise it’s unfair!

“Elo The law enforcers were actually present just watching.”

Meanwhile, others thanked the police officers on the ground for calming the situation at last.

Mulenga Malekani said: “Moses Mpweto; Have you just woken up, who calmed down the all fracas or maybe you wanted police brutality to be applied on that carder.”