NJOBVU QUESTIONS USE OF SPECIAL FORCES FOR CLEANING EXERCISE.
THE planned deployment of Zambia’s Special Forces personnel to clean parts of Lusaka has sparked questions over the country’s priorities and the appropriate use of men and women in uniform.
Democratic Union (DU) President Ackim Antony Njobvu has criticised the decision to deploy 150 Special Forces personnel to undertake a cleaning exercise around the Universal Church–FINDECO Flyover Bridge area, questioning why highly trained military personnel are being assigned duties that could be handled by other institutions.
Njobvu said the country appeared to be losing direction, arguing that the deployment risked undermining the dignity and professional responsibilities of members of the disciplined forces.
“Our country is losing direction. We are abusing our men in uniform. They deserve RESPECT,” he said.
He further questioned why Special Forces, whom he described in reference to elite military units such as commandos and Navy SEALs, should be involved in street cleaning when institutions such as the Zambia National Service (ZNS) and correctional facilities could potentially undertake such assignments.
“How can you use Special Forces/Commandos, Navy SEALS to clean streets? Where are the prisoners or ZNS?” Njobvu questioned
His remarks follow an announcement by Special Forces Commander Brigadier General Moses Shapwaya that 150 personnel would be deployed to assist with cleaning the area between Universal Church and FINDECO Flyover Bridge.
Brigadier General Shapwaya disclosed the planned exercise during a courtesy call on Lusaka Mayor Chitambala Mwewa.
The cleaning exercise is scheduled for Monday, November 9, 2026.
Kumwesu | Nov 6, 2026