CHISHALA KATEKA DEMANDS APOLOGY OVER ARMY COMMANDER’S REMARKS
By Nelson Zulu
Opposition New Heritage Party President Chishala Kateka has demanded a formal apology from both government and Zambia Army Commander Lieutenant General Geoffrey Zyeele following remarks in which he threatened illegal miners.
Speaking when she featured on the Friday edition of “Let the People Talk” on Phoenix FM, Ms. Kateka described the language used by the army commander as dehumanizing and inappropriate, arguing that miners should not be spoken of in terms suggesting they could be eradicated.
She stressed that while illegal mining must be addressed, any response should respect human life and remain within the scope of civilian law enforcement, rather than involving the military.
Ms. Kateka further called on government to clarify whether the directive for any potential military deployment to mining areas originated from the head of state.
Meanwhile, the opposition leader also criticized government’s handling of President Hakainde Hichilema’s leave in Choma, describing the secrecy surrounding his whereabouts and the unspecified duration of his leave as appalling.
She has called for clearer communication regarding the president’s activities while away, stating that as a national figure, citizens have a right to be informed in order to avoid speculation.
PHOENIX NEWS
Ive noticed this kateka chap does not make any sense . Have you not heard generals worldwide making even stronger statements?
Illegal mining is a national security issue, can’t you see some countries around you, its a breeding ground for anarchy, dangerous! Please, president/army don’t take too long to flush out the bad people.
Ba Kateka, take a walk to one of the illegal mines and see how much respect you will be accorded. If you can’t, talk to those who are familiar with the scurge to get a glimpse of what goes on there.
Illegal mining must be treated with the utmost urgency. It is not kid’s play. They can easily morph into militias and organised crime syndicates. Once they get to that, it will be very difficult to deal with them. A stitch in time saves nine.
Clearly, our politicians especially those in the opposition, donot seem to understand the gravity of the situation we are in or they don’t care about anything other than getting into state house.
Irrelevant as always. Should be running mate in the Political comedian’s alliance.