CHOMA TRADERS THREATEN PEACEFUL PROTEST DURING PRESIDENT HICHILEMA’S VISIT.
Some traders at Choma’s Makalanguzu Market have threatened to stage a peaceful protest during President Hakainde Hichilema’s visit to the district this week over delays in the completion of township roads.
The traders say they are frustrated with the contractor handling the 10.7-kilometre township roads project, accusing the company of failing to complete the works despite repeated promises.
In a walk in interview, trader Joshua Mweemba said they have been forced to endure excessive dust for more than a year because the roads are repeatedly graded but have not been tarred as promised.
Mweemba said since local leaders have failed to ensure the project is completed, traders have resolved to make a peaceful appeal to the Head of State during his two scheduled rallies in the district on Friday and Saturday.
He also questioned why the contractor excavated several roads in the Central Business District before abandoning machinery at the site, saying the situation has worsened traffic congestion and disrupted business activities.
Another trader, Bertha Kawewe, said a peaceful protest is necessary to draw the President’s attention to the concerns of local residents.
She said the prolonged dust emissions over the past year have posed a serious health risk to traders, residents, and members of the public.