UPND distances itself from attacks on journalists, pledges rule of law

The United Party for National Development (UPND) has distanced itself from the recent violence against a journalist by suspected party cadres.

The media reports that UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe said perpetrators must face the law.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka, Mr Simuuwe said the party has noted reports of members harassing journalists in the company of aspiring candidates in some parts of the country.

He said that President Hakainde Hichilema and the party have a staunch position in promoting freedom of the press.

He further added that UPND remains committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting all journalists regardless of which media institution they come from.

He reiterated President Hichilema’s position that whoever breaks the law is on their own, stressing that the statement covers everyone, including UPND members.

“We cannot excuse ourselves for the happenings in the party that relate to attacks on journalists, for that we distance ourselves from the happenings and also want to reiterate the President’s call to law enforcement agencies to move in and arrest the perpetrators,” he said.

And Mr Simuuwe urged the affected journalists to report to the police.

Meanwhile, UPND Deputy Secretary General Gertrude Imenda also condemned the attack saying the party cannot condone such incidents.

Ms Imenda reiterated President Hichilema’s stance against violence, saying that he does not want to be a President who presides over destruction and bloodshed.

“We do not condone violence on anybody. It is not allowed. As a party, we don’t subscribe to that, I want to condemn in the strongest terms what has happened and we are going to look into it so that those people who assaulted the journalist can answer for their misdemeanours,” she added

Ms Imenda also addressed reports from Monze concerning disrespectful remarks made against Monze Central Member of Parliament, Jack Mwiimbu, calling for discipline within the party.

“If you don’t want to support someone, there is a process that is coming. But there’s no need to start disparaging him in a very disrespectful manner. That’s not allowed,” she added.