The opposition Movement for Economic Emancipation (MEE) has raised alarm over a fresh wave of political viòlence, warning that the chaos gripping parts of the country has crossed from mere “political misconduct” into acts that legally qualify as tèrròrism.
In a statement issued today, MEE board chairperson Harrison Chewe expressed deep concern at the “continued acts of political viòlence” which it says now threaten Zambia’s peace, dignity, and democratic stability.
He reminded the Zambia Police Service of its constitutional mandate to uphold law and order and demanded swift action against perpetrators regardless of political affiliation.
Referring to the Anti-Tèrròrism and Non-Proliferation (Amendment) Act of 2023, Chewe stated that any crime with the intention of endangering life, causing serious injury, intimidating the public, disrupting a public service, or causing disorder is considered tèrròrism.
According to the Act, tèrròrism includes “intimidation meant to force the public or a government institution to act a certain way, disrupting public or essential services and creating general insurrection in the Republic”.
Chewe insisted that these viòlent incidents are no longer routine political clashes but offences that “meet the legal threshold of tèrròrism” and must be treated with urgency.
“It does not matter which political party or grouping is behind these acts,” he stated. “The law must be applied equally to every individual and organization.”
Chewe reaffirmed that Zambia’s peace and democracy depend on consistent enforcement of the law and urged law enforcement agencies to act impartially and decisively.
As tensions rise ahead of key political activities, Chewe stated that the era of excusing political viòlence is over, and those behind it will face the full force of anti-terrorism laws.