44 Views Heavy police deployment in full riot gear has sealed off Mpika Boys Grounds in Mpika, Muchinga Province, hours before a planned political rally by National Rally for Peace and Progress (NRPUP) President Brian Mundubile and party lawyer Makebi Zulu. Supporters arriving at the venue were reportedly turned away as officers blocked all entry […]

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Heavy police deployment in full riot gear has sealed off Mpika Boys Grounds in Mpika, Muchinga Province, hours before a planned political rally by National Rally for Peace and Progress (NRPUP) President Brian Mundubile and party lawyer Makebi Zulu.

Supporters arriving at the venue were reportedly turned away as officers blocked all entry points. The operation was still ongoing at the time of reporting.

Grindstone TV says no official reason has been given for the police action. The Zambia Police Service had not issued a statement by press time.

This is a developing story and will be updated once authorities comment.

Background: The National Rally for Peace and Progress is a new political party led by Brian Mundubile, who is also contesting the presidency in the 13 August 2026 General Election with running mate Makebi Zulu. The party is part of the opposition field ahead of the polls.

Mpika’s political significance: Mpika is Mundubile’s home district in Muchinga Province, a region that has traditionally been a PF stronghold.

Opposition rallies in Muchinga often draw large crowds and heightened security attention during election periods.

Pattern of rally restrictions: Police blocking opposition gatherings is not new in Zambia’s election cycles. Both the 2016 and 2021 campaigns saw similar disputes over Public Order Act notifications, with opposition parties alleging selective enforcement while the police cite security and procedural requirements.

Election context: The incident comes weeks before ECZ begins phased printing of ballot papers in Dubai for the August 13 election. Tensions over campaign space have been rising as parties intensify mobilization.

Authorities are expected to clarify whether the blockage relates to permit issues, security concerns, or other factors.