President Hakainde Hichilema has issued a firm warning against political violence and disorder as Zambia officially enters the campaign period, declaring that law enforcement agencies have been placed on high alert and that anyone found breaking the law will face consequences regardless of political affiliation.
In a message posted on his official Facebook page as campaigns formally began, Hichilema sought to reassure citizens that the country would remain stable during the election season.
“Fellow Citizens, as the nation enters the official campaign period, I wish to assure the country that Zambia shall remain peaceful, orderly, and secure,” the President wrote.
His statement comes as political parties transition from nominations into full campaign mobilisation across the country, with rallies, outreach programmes and constituency operations expected to intensify in the coming weeks.
Hichilema warned political players against conduct that could threaten national stability, while emphasising that democratic competition must remain peaceful.
“Democracy requires robust debate and the free exchange of ideas. However, no action that threatens peace, unity, public order, or national security shall be tolerated. The law shall apply firmly, fairly, and without favour to all, regardless of political affiliation or social standing.”
He added that even members of his own party would not be shielded from legal consequences.
“Any individual or group found wanting by the law, from whatever political persuasion, including members of our own party, will be on their own.”
The President said he had already directed security agencies to remain alert throughout the electoral process.
“I have therefore directed all law enforcement agencies to remain on high alert and to ensure a peaceful environment before, during, and after the elections. Law-abiding citizens are assured of the State’s full protection throughout the entire electoral process.”
The message sets a firm public tone as Zambia enters one of the most politically active periods of the electoral calendar, with law enforcement now expected to demonstrate neutrality as campaigns intensify.
This is actually a very responsible message from the President. Elections come and go but Zambia remains. We don’t want violence, burning tyres and confusion because of politicians who will move on after elections while ordinary citizens suffer. Let parties campaign freely but peacefully.
are you on Drugs? this regime has played a silent dictatorship
Which message has been irresponsible, since you say this one is a responsible one
That’s very true especially compared to the dark PF era of bloodshed .
That line where he said people will be on their own if they break the law was very serious ? honestly some cadres from all parties needed to hear that message properly.
In the days of PF we could have seen alot of Fights this time already Bravo to UPND
There is no bravo to any body, we have seen violence from cadres in this same regime. Violence should always be discouraged, the reason I condemned the high level violence where the commander in chief was chased with stones by his allegedly dissatisfied cadres in chingola. Let us be peaceful
This is what exceptional leadership looks like. May we see a clean and peaceful campaign season. We know our great leader is knee on provding such an atmosphere
This is critical. Well said, indeed we don’t want the confusion of yester-years.
Indeed wise words Sir we all stand with you on this for sure even though it’s the only one
Will we even know if the presidential fund drawn from the coffers is the biggect in Zambia’s history
Just curiosity ???
We are zambians we maybe many things but peace is something within our DNA and may the best man win…go and vote
Peace in our dna ?? through apathy or gutless
Well said Bwana HH peace, law and order are very important but another vice during elections is always voter bribery.Are we gonna see chitenge ,free mealy meals and bicycle election bribes this time?
My MY for once I fully agree with you
Are those his campaign managers? Why should they appear on campaign issues?
It’s just a warning