UPND Calls for Probe into Solwezi Musicians’ Incident

The United Party for National Development (UPND) has called on the Zambia Police Service to conduct what it describes as a thorough, professional and impartial investigation into an alleged altercation involving musicians in Solwezi.

UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe says the party has noted allegations made by National Restoration and Progressive Union Party presidential candidate Brian Mundubile, who linked President Hakainde Hichilema and the ruling party to the reported incident.

Mr. Simuuwe says the UPND rejects the allegations, maintaining that the New Dawn Government has consistently opposed political violence and dismantled political cadreism since assuming office.

He says anyone found to have engaged in criminal conduct, regardless of political affiliation, should be dealt with in accordance with the law.

Mr. Simuuwe has urged Mr. Mundubile to submit any video footage or other evidence in his possession to the Zambia Police Service to assist with investigations, rather than pursuing the matter through social media.

He says assigning blame before investigations are concluded risks undermining due process and escalating political tensions ahead of the August 13 General Election.

Mr. Simuuwe has further rejected attempts to implicate President Hakainde Hichilema in the reported incident, stating that the President has consistently instructed party members to uphold peace, discipline and respect for the rule of law.

He has since called on all political parties to conduct peaceful, issue-based campaigns and allow law enforcement agencies to carry out their constitutional mandate independently.