ARMY COMMANDER MISUSED WORD ‘EXTERMINATE’ – DEFENSE MINISTER
Minister of Defence Ambrose Lufuma has clarified that Army Commander Lieutenant General Godfrey Zyeele misused the word “exterminate” when addressing the issue of illegal mining activities in Mufumbwe.
Lufuma said that exterminating people is not an option under the current government, stressing that the Zambia Army’s mandate is to peacefully remove and guide illegal miners out of the affected area, not to harm them.
His remarks follow a viral video in which Lt Gen Zyeele was heard stating that the Commander-in-Chief had directed the army to “exterminate” illegal miners. In the video, the Army Commander said the directive was clear, adding that while the army did not intend to use force, it would do so if deemed necessary, acknowledging that such actions could result in consequences including injuries or loss.
The Minister’s clarification seeks to reassure the public that the government remains committed to lawful and humane approaches in dealing with illegal mining activities.
The minister is a disgrace! Leave the army alone. I don’t care it was fumigation or extermination, I needed them out of there expeditiously because it is a national security risk, we can’t dance around a threat armed bad individuals
The army commander used the correct words. He means to completely destroy illegal mining and he is serious. Now whether, illegal miners will be killed or not depends on how they respond. If they insist on continuing with their illegal activities, the consequences are clear, they will be killed.
So it is up to them as to what will be their fate. It is not the choice of the army commander. He has a rich vocabulary and doesnot need the Minister of Defence’s clarification.
If he misused the wrong word let him just apologize and we move on.
The minister is correct. And it is good he has made this statement.
The army is there to serve citizens, and not the warped wishes of Hakainde. Yes, ZYEELE is Hakainde’s relative, just like most top appointments, but that does not mean he can use such unpalatable language. Zambia is not an animal farm. Hakainde is not the messiah. He is a mortal human being, and his time to vacate office will come soon, whether he likes it or not. But what he will leave behind is what matters. He should remember that.
REJECT TRIBALISM, CORRUPTION AND OPPRESSION.
VOTE FOR CHANGE IN AUGUST.