*Statement Condemning the HH and UPND Government’s Abuse of Power and Encouragement of Illegality*
In light of recent alarming developments, it is with great concern that we stand against the HH and UPND government’s blatant attempts to consolidate power through illegal and unethical means. The government’s tolerance of unlawful actions by its cadres and affiliates signals a troubling erosion of the rule of law and a dangerous trajectory for our democracy.
The recent encouragement by the State House of Robert Chabinga to defy a High Court order reflects an administration that selectively respects the law, disregarding judicial authority when it serves their interests. By supporting Chabinga’s self-declared expulsion of the Patriotic Front’s legitimate leaders, including former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu and Matero MP Miles Sampa, the government is complicit in destabilizing opposition forces. This flagrant disregard for legal rulings, coupled with support from the Ministry of Home Affairs in facilitating Chabinga’s illegal takeover, highlights a deeply troubling use of state machinery to undermine democratic processes.
Equally disturbing is the reckless and violent behavior exhibited by UPND cadres, who recently attacked former President Edgar Lungu’s convoy in Kafue, armed with dangerous weapons. This brazen assault on a former head of state, who was simply exercising his right to worship, is a chilling display of the growing culture of political intimidation. Such lawlessness should be unequivocally condemned, yet the government’s silence only emboldens these rogue elements further.
Furthermore, the recent injunction issued by the High Court against Chabinga underscores the severity of these illegal actions. Defying this injunction is a direct affront to our judiciary and the rule of law, eroding the principles upon which our democracy is founded. The notion that any individual or party can operate as if they are above the law cannot be tolerated in a just society.
In a true democracy, power is not consolidated through illegal means or coercion, but through fair governance and respect for all institutions of justice. We, therefore, call upon all Zambians and the international community to take note of these developments and hold the HH and UPND administration accountable. Zambia’s democracy deserves better, and we will continue to stand resolute against any actions that threaten the freedoms and rights of its citizens.
Rev Dr kelvin Mugala
Advocate