HH AND ECL CHALLENGED TO PREACH PEACE

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HH AND ECL CHALLENGED TO PREACH PEACE

By Michael Kaluba

Action Aid Zambia has challenged President Hakainde Hichilema and his predecessor Edgar Lungu to preach messages of peace and to remain cognizant that any pronouncement from either of them influences the public.

Action Aid Zambia Interim Country Director Musonda Kabinga says the ongoing exchange of harsh words from the statesmen is not inspiring and should be condemned in the strongest possible way.

Mr. Kabinga has also strongly condemned the recent incidences of political violence witnessed in zambia, particularly on the Copperbelt where the ruling United Party for National Development-UPND and opposition Patriotic Front-PF youths clashed during the commemoration of the youth day and has warned that this gradual increase in political violence could affect other people’s rights and national security if left unchecked.

He argues that according to the World Health Organization, political violence is characterized by both physical and psychological acts aimed at injuring or intimidating populations and is urging leaders to find space to engage and interact with youths who are facing several social and economic challenges that need attention while curbing political violence.

Mr. Kabinga adds that political parties must begin engaging on strategies aimed at creating employment opportunities for the youths and not violence while challenging state institutions mandated by the constitution, to ensure they protect the rights of the citizens to express, associate and assemble without any form of intimidation.

PHOENIX NEWS

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