The lingering face-off between the Zambian government and former President Edgar Lungu has taken a new dimension after the police in Lusaka cordoned off the secretariat of the Patriotic Front (PF) located on Panganani Road to prevent the ex-Head of State from holding a scheduled media briefing.
Zambia Monitor reports that police officers, armed with anti-riot vehicles, surrounded the premises, denying entry to any individual, while officers were seen conducting security drills at the scene, preparing for potential unrest.
The report stated that the police presence at the PF Secretariat appears to be part of a broader clampdown that coincided with the 10th memorial of the late 5th Republican President Michael Sata, an annual service for Sata, conducted by Lusaka Archdiocese Catholic Bishop Dr. Alick Banda, which took place at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus at Pope Square.
“However, on Monday morning, police also blocked the entrances to the Cathedral, disrupting the memorial preparations. Bishop Banda and other church leaders were prevented from accessing the venue until around 10:00 a.m., when a compromise was reached with the police, allowing the service to proceed,” the reputable platform noted.
It added that PF faction Vice President Given Lubinda who addressed the situation, explained that Lungu’s absence at Sata’s memorial service would be clarified during the rescheduled media briefing at the PF Secretariat.
“Today marks a special day as we gather at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus to honor Michael Chilufya Sata. Our president, Edgar Chagwa Lungu, should have led, but he is not here, and I will not pre-empt the reasons because we have a press briefing tomorrow at the party Secretariat,” Lubinda stated.
“The memorial for Sata has historically been a significant event for PF members and supporters, underscoring the party’s legacy and connection to the late leader.
“However, this year, heightened security tensions and Lungu’s conspicuous absence have fueled speculation within political circles.
“In addition to sealing off the PF Secretariat, police have also cordoned off Embassy Park, where Lungu and PF faction leaders were scheduled to lay a wreath in honour of Sata.
“Heavily armed officers remain stationed at the park, restricting access and maintaining a watchful presence.
“The police’s actions have raised questions among PF members and supporters about the government’s stance toward opposition activities, as tensions within Zambian politics continue to escalate,” the Zambia Monitor said in the report.