Police open docket on Mpundu over ‘I’m ready to kill’ election threat as he admits making video

95 ViewsPolice have launched investigations into former Nkana Member of Parliament Binwell Mpundu following a viral video in which he is allegedly heard saying he was ready to “kill or be killed” in relation to the upcoming elections. Police Spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi says the Service is actively investigating the matter and is treating the utterances […]

95 Views

Godfrey Chilabi

Police have launched investigations into former Nkana Member of Parliament Binwell Mpundu following a viral video in which he is allegedly heard saying he was ready to “kill or be killed” in relation to the upcoming elections.

Police Spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi says the Service is actively investigating the matter and is treating the utterances with seriousness given the sensitivity of the election period.

Speaking on Sun FM TV’s Zambia Decides, Chilabi said police experts are currently examining and verifying the video to establish its authenticity, context, and the exact words used.

He said the Service is taking a keen interest in Mpundu’s statements and will act in accordance with the law once the review is complete.

“The Zambia Police Service is aware of the video circulating on social media attributed to Binwell Mpundu. Our technical team is examining the content to verify it.

We are taking a keen interest because such utterances have the potential to incite violence and disturb public order, especially at this time when the country is preparing for elections,” Chilabi said.

His comments follow an admission by the Tonse Alliance that Mpundu indeed made remarks to the effect that he was ready to “kill or be killed” for elections.

The Alliance did not distance itself from the statement, but said the remarks were made in the heat of political mobilisation.

The video, which has been widely shared on WhatsApp, Facebook and TikTok since the weekend, shows Mpundu vowing that he was to do anything for the polls.

In the clip he is heard saying he was “ready to die” and “prepared to kill” to ensure victory for his side in the August 13 polls.

The remarks have triggered widespread condemnation from civil society, church groups and sections of the public who have called on authorities to act swiftly.

Legal experts say utterances that advocate violence can fall under provisions of the Penal Code relating to incitement and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace.

They note that during an election period, law enforcement has a duty to be proactive in order to prevent escalation.

Chilabi said the police will not tolerate any form of political violence or hate speech, regardless of who makes the statements.

He urged political leaders and their supporters to campaign peacefully and to respect the Electoral Code of Conduct.

“We are calling on all political players to exercise restraint. Elections are a democratic process, not a war. The police will ensure that the law is applied equally to everyone,” Chilabi said.

The Tonse Alliance, in its response, acknowledged that Mpundu made the remarks but argued that they were not meant literally.

According to the Alliance, the statement was intended to demonstrate commitment and resolve ahead of polling day. However, critics have said that such language is dangerous and can be misinterpreted by supporters on the ground.

Human rights organisations have also weighed in, calling on the police to conclude investigations quickly and to communicate the outcome to the public.

They say failure to act decisively could embolden others to use similar rhetoric.

The Church and traditional leaders have meanwhile appealed for calm. Several bishops issued a joint statement urging politicians to tone down their language and to remind their cadres that Zambia’s democracy has always been anchored on peace.

Chiefs in the Copperbelt, where Mpundu served as MP for Nkana, have also called on youths to avoid being used to cause violence.

Mpundu himself has not issued a public statement since the video went viral. Attempts to reach him for comment were unsuccessful by press time.

Political analysts say the timing of the remarks is problematic because the country is in the final stretch to the August 13 General Elections.

With campaigns set to close on Wednesday, they argue that leaders have a responsibility to de-escalate tension rather than inflame it.

The Zambia Police Service has in the last two weeks increased patrols and public engagements in perceived hotspots. Chilabi said officers have been instructed to be on high alert and to respond promptly to any reports of intimidation or violence.

He added that the investigation into Mpundu’s video will be handled transparently and that the public will be updated once the verification process is concluded.

As the nation counts down to polling day, calls for responsible speech have grown louder. For many Zambians, the handling of this case will be seen as a test of whether institutions can hold powerful individuals accountable and protect the peace.

The Electoral Commission of Zambia has also reminded political parties that adherence to the Code of Conduct is mandatory, and that violations can attract sanctions.

With just days to go before Zambians go to the polls, authorities are urging everyone to remember that no political office is worth bloodshed.