“Freedom of assembly has limitations,” police IG issues strong warning ahead of Presidential swearing-in ceremony

4 Views The Zambia Police Service has issued a stern warning against has been described as planned unlawful protests and processions ahead of next week’s presidential inauguration, vowing to deal “firmly” with anyone who breaks the law. In a press statement released today, Inspector General of Police Graphael C. Musamba said the Police had received […]

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The Zambia Police Service has issued a stern warning against has been described as planned unlawful protests and processions ahead of next week’s presidential inauguration, vowing to deal “firmly” with anyone who breaks the law.

In a press statement released today, Inspector General of Police Graphael C. Musamba said the Police had received “credible intelligence” that certain groups were planning to mobilize the public to hold illegal protests at various locations, including during the inauguration ceremony set for Tuesday, September 1, 2026.

The police IG also cited ongoing efforts to incite demonstrations against the detention of suspects currently in police custody.

Musamba reminded citizens that while Article 21 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of assembly, the right is not absolute and must be exercised within the law, with regard to public safety, public order and the rights of others.

“The Zambia Police Service has a constitutional and statutory responsibility to maintain law and order, protect life and property, and ensure public safety and security.

“Any person who participates in, organises, facilitates or otherwise supports unlawful activities will be dealt with firmly in accordance with the law,” he said.

The Police boss cautioned the public against being drawn into acts of violence, obstruction, or any conduct that constitutes a criminal offence.

The warning comes amid heightened political tension following the 2026 general elections.

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*FULL STATEMENT:*

*ZAMBIA POLICE SERVICE*
*PRESS STATEMENT*
*For Immediate Release*

*CAUTION AGAINST UNLAWFUL PUBLIC PROCESSIONS, ASSEMBLIES AND PROTESTS*

August 28, 2026-The Zambia Police Service has received credible intelligence indicating that certain groups and individuals are planning to incite members of the public to participate in unlawful processions and protests at various locations across the country, including during the inauguration ceremony scheduled for Tuesday 1st September 2026.

Further, the Service is aware of ongoing efforts to mobilise and incite members of the public to protest against the detention of certain suspects currently in police custody.

We wish to remind the public that, while Article 21 of the Constitution of Zambia guarantees the right to freedom of assembly and association, this right must be exercised in accordance with the law.

The exercise of this right is subject to lawful limitations necessary, among other things, for the maintenance of public safety, public order; and the rights and freedoms of other people.

It must be unequivocally emphasised that, the Zambia Police Service has a constitutional and statutory responsibility to maintain law and order, protect life and property, and ensure public safety and security.

In this regard, any person who participates in, organises, facilitates or otherwise supports unlawful activities will be dealt with firmly in accordance with the law.

Members of the public are further cautioned against allowing themselves to be incited or mobilised into acts of violence, obstruction of lawful activities, or any other conduct that constitutes a criminal offence.

We wish to reaffirm that, all persons in police custody, are being accorded their constitutional and legal rights.

The Service remains committed to upholding the Constitution and the rule of law, protecting life and property, maintaining public order and safety, and ensuring that all persons exercise their rights without infringing upon the rights and freedoms of others.

The public is urged to remain calm, law abiding and cooperative with law enforcement agencies during this period.

*Signed*
*Graphael C. Musamba*
*INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE*