“They have shown how devilish they are” – Akashambatwa says teargas has strengthened his resolve to remove UPND

426 Views Veteran politician Prince Akashambatwa Mbikusita-Lewanika says being tear-gassed while campaigning for Tonse Pamodzi Alliance-backed presidential candidate Brian Mundubile in Mongu has only strengthened his determination to see President Hakainde Hichilema’s government voted out in the August 13 general elections. Speaking after recovering from the effects of the tear gas, Akashambatwa said the incident […]

426 Views

Akashambatwa Mbikusita

Veteran politician Prince Akashambatwa Mbikusita-Lewanika says being tear-gassed while campaigning for Tonse Pamodzi Alliance-backed presidential candidate Brian Mundubile in Mongu has only strengthened his determination to see President Hakainde Hichilema’s government voted out in the August 13 general elections.

Speaking after recovering from the effects of the tear gas, Akashambatwa said the incident reinforced his belief that Zambia needed a change of leadership.

According to a report by Muvi Television, Akashambatwa said the experience confirmed the concerns he had been raising about the current administration.

“When the tear gas got into my eyes, I felt that it was a confirmation that we were right to speak against this government. So being tear-gassed is nothing. Africans have died for African freedom in many numbers,” he said.

Muvi Television reported that it had not independently verified the full circumstances surrounding the incident, including who fired the tear gas, and was still seeking further details.

Akashambatwa, a founding member of the Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD) and co-chairperson of the Council of Elders that has endorsed Brian Mundubile and running mate Makebi Zulu, said the incident had exposed what he described as the true character of those responsible.

“I’m quite happy that they have revealed how devilish they are, and we are not afraid,” he said.

“Tear-gassing peaceful citizens is a clear demonstration that we have a bad government. I will not ever support a government which tear-gasses opponents. And they demonstrated that, and I’m sorry for the general public, the citizens who suffered under that tear gas. Your suffering is not in vain.”

The senior statesman praised Mundubile and Zulu for continuing with their campaigns despite what he described as intimidation, harassment and restrictions during the election period.

He further accused President Hichilema of using the advantages of incumbency to campaign across the country ahead of next week’s polls.

“He needs to be seen all over the country as he is saying goodbye, because he won’t get another chance,” Akashambatwa said.

With less than ten days before Zambians head to the polls, Akashambatwa urged citizens to remain steadfast.

“We have less than ten days to use our powers to remove a government which has nakedly shown us to be a bad government,” he said.

“A day of freedom is coming, and it will not be stopped as long as we do not surrender, and we shall not surrender.”

The Mongu incident has added to a series of reported cases of campaign-related violence and disruptions during the election period. Various political parties and stakeholders have raised concerns over incidents reported in Kalingalinga, Luampa, Mwembeshi, Kaputa and Mazabuka.

President Hakainde Hichilema has repeatedly condemned political violence throughout the campaign. In his recent public statements, the Head of State has maintained that the law applies equally to everyone regardless of political affiliation and has insisted that no political party will shield individuals found responsible for acts of violence.