UPND cautions individuals plotting harm against President Hichilema

UPND cautions individuals plotting harm against President Hichilema

UPND leaders have condemned the violence that occurred in Chingola at the weekend, warning that individuals plotting harm against President Hakainde Hichilema will face firm resistance from members of the ruling party’s structures. The remarks were issued separately by UPND Secretary General Batuke Imenda and Bwacha UPND MP Kasanita Michelo, who addressed supporters during post-incident briefings.

Imenda described the events in Chingola as unacceptable and urged citizens to uphold peaceful methods of expressing grievances. He said violence in any form reflected negatively on the country and should never be normalised. According to him, President Hichilema’s administration has consistently advocated for dialogue, community engagement and non-violent political competition, and expects citizens to use lawful avenues to address disagreements.

During his remarks, Imenda stressed the importance of safeguarding national unity. He noted that Zambia has made progress under the current administration in areas such as education support, health provision and broad governance reforms, adding that disruptions caused by politically motivated incidents weaken community confidence. He said the Chingola disturbances showed a need for continued efforts to educate communities on peaceful political engagement.

Michelo addressed supporters in a separate gathering where he warned individuals planning violent attacks on the President that they would face resistance from those tasked with protecting him. He said members of the ruling party remain alert to threats and will not allow plots that risk the life of the Head of State. Michelo said the UPND expects political competition but will not tolerate acts that go beyond normal political rivalry into criminal intent.

While responding to questions from supporters, Michelo said nobody in the party had encouraged violence. He emphasised that those aiming to harm the President were not motivated by political opposition but by criminal intentions, which he said must be confronted firmly. He added that the UPND had experienced similar threats in the past and would continue protecting its leader from individuals intent on creating disorder.

Michelo also referenced reports circulating on social media claiming that the Chingola attackers were linked to the ruling party. He dismissed these claims and said the party had not deployed anyone to engage in confrontation. He said members arrested in separate incidents unrelated to Chingola should not be confused with those who participated in violent acts targeting the President. According to him, critics often conflate unrelated events to portray the ruling party unfairly.

Both leaders called for the maintenance of internal discipline within UPND structures. Imenda encouraged party members to uphold the values of peace, unity and lawful conduct, saying national progress requires a stable environment. He said the party expects supporters to follow established guidelines when attending gatherings, responding to provocation or expressing grievances.

Michelo echoed the call for discipline, adding that individuals who join the party must understand their obligations to maintain order. He said the national management committee remains committed to preserving peace and ensuring that any member who engages in disorderly conduct is subjected to internal processes. He reminded supporters that membership in a political organisation comes with responsibilities, and any deviation from the party’s values undermines the work being done to strengthen national cohesion.

The remarks come after a week of heightened discussion around security concerns following the Chingola disturbances. Community members expressed worry about the wider implications of such incidents, especially in areas where political tensions remain high. Civil society organisations have also urged political leaders to speak strongly against violent behaviour and encourage dialogue as the primary method for addressing conflict.

Imenda reaffirmed that the UPND remains committed to protecting the lives of citizens and maintaining a peaceful climate. He said the party believes in opportunities built on lawfulness, dignity and mutual respect. He added that Zambians should take pride in upholding peace because the country has historically resolved disputes through dialogue and democratic processes.

The UPND leadership also addressed perceptions that the Chingola incident signalled rising political disorder. Imenda said isolated incidents should not mislead citizens into believing that the country is sliding into widespread instability. He urged the public to report threats to authorities and to reject political actors who promote chaos.

Michelo, meanwhile, stressed that any attempt to attack the President cannot be treated lightly, explaining that such actions threaten national stability. He told supporters that those planning violent acts put their own communities at risk because law enforcement agencies treat such threats as matters of national security.

As the debate continues, political observers note that the Chingola disturbance has reignited conversation about the behaviour of political groups and the role of party leadership in guiding supporters. Calls for responsible messaging, community engagement and consistent enforcement of internal disciplinary measures have featured prominently across public commentary.

Both Imenda and Michelo emphasised that UPND members stand ready to defend the Head of State against criminals, not political opponents. They said political competition is welcome but must take place within the confines of the law. Their remarks form part of the ruling party’s wider effort to reassure the public that peace and security remain priorities as political activities intensify across the country.