NRP-UP vice-presidential candidate Makebi Zulu made a symbolic statement during a campaign rally in Matero on Friday after removing his bulletproof vest on stage, declaring that he would not allow fear to influence his campaign.
Addressing supporters, Mr. Zulu said he had received advice from many people to wear bulletproof protection during the election period because of the prevailing political climate. However, he told the crowd that he and his party would not campaign in fear.
The gesture comes days after the opposition alleged that police disrupted campaign activities in Lusaka by firing tear gas during a roadshow involving presidential candidate Brian Mundubile and Mr. Zulu. The opposition described the incident as intimidation, while authorities have maintained a different account of the events.
The Matero rally was part of the NRP-UP’s ongoing nationwide campaign ahead of the August 13 general election.