“We have come too far to turn back now,” vows Mundubile

753 Views National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity presidential candidate Brian Mundubile says it is too late for him to drop out of electoral race despite intimidation and harassment. In an update posted on his social media handle, Mundubile said what happened yesterday in Mongu is deeply regrettable and has no place in a […]

753 Views

National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity presidential candidate Brian Mundubile says it is too late for him to drop out of electoral race despite intimidation and harassment.

In an update posted on his social media handle, Mundubile said what happened yesterday in Mongu is deeply regrettable and has no place in a democratic society.

He added that every Zambian, regardless of political affiliation, has a constitutional right to assemble peacefully, campaign freely and be heard.

“Fellow Zambians,

“Yesterday in Mongu, our peaceful campaign rally was violently disrupted after Zambia Police discharged teargas, forcing thousands of our supporters to flee and cutting short our engagement with the people.

“What happened yesterday is deeply regrettable and has no place in a democratic society.

“Every Zambian, regardless of political affiliation, has a constitutional right to assemble peacefully, campaign freely and be heard,” he said.

He pointed out that democracy cannot flourish where intimidation replaces dialogue and force is used to silence alternative voices.

He vowed not to be drawn back: “Let me make one thing abundantly clear: we will not be intimidated.

“No amount of teargas, threats or harassment will stop us from taking our message of hope, unity and economic recovery to the people of Zambia.

“We have come too far to turn back now, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to a better Zambia,” said.

Mundubile highlighted that he is convinced that the future of the country will not be decided by fear or violence, but by the free will of the Zambian people expressed through the ballot box on August 13.

“I therefore urge all our members and supporters to remain calm, disciplined and peaceful. Do not be provoked. Do not retaliate. Our greatest response to intimidation is our unwavering commitment to peace and our determination to vote.

“To every Zambian who has stood with us during these difficult moments, I thank you for your courage, resilience and faith. Your determination strengthens our resolve to continue this journey until the very end.

“We shall continue campaigning in every part of our beloved country. We shall continue speaking for those who have lost hope.

“And, with God’s grace, together we shall build a Zambia founded on justice, freedom, opportunity, prosperity and genuine national unity.

Meanwhile, Mundubile said his party was denied flying rights and is now exposed to ambushes and road blockages while traveling by road as the campaign period intensifies.

Speaking during a press conference yesterday, Mundubile said the Electoral Commission of Zambia allocated each party five days in every province, but without air access, his party is at a disadvantage.

“The Electoral Commission of Zambia gave each party 5 days in each province, and without flying rights, we are traveling by road. This disadvantages us in many ways and also exposes us to road blockages,” Mundubile said.

He alleged that the ruling party could take advantage of their road travel to frustrate them.

“Knowing that we are traveling by road, UPND could easily lay ambushes on us blocking us,” he said.

Mundubile added that in some instances his team has been forced to use longer routes after detecting danger on shorter and intended roads.

In parts of the Northern Province where the team failed to reach, such as Kabombo, Mundubile said they deployed delegations to campaign and deliver the message.

He further accused the ruling party of giving its cadres police uniforms to commit acts of violence.

Mundubile called on Zambians to remain vigilant and said those responsible should be identified and brought to book.

Meanwhile, President Hakainde Hichilema has condemned acts of political violence and called on the police to act swiftly to protect all political players and ensure a peaceful campaign environment.

Inspector General of Police has responded to the concerns and ordered investigations into reported acts of violence, adding that those found wanting will be prosecuted.

With the 13 August elections approaching, opposition parties have raised concerns about access, security and a level playing field during campaigns.