Minister Matambo condemns opposition parties for exploiting Mufulira tragedy, promises investigation (video)

Copperbelt Province Minister, Elisha Matambo, has criticised opposition political parties for turning the death of Chrispin Mbunda, a 15-year-old boy in Mufulira’s Kankoyo Township, who was shot dead by Zambia National Service (ZNS) officer on Tuesday, into a political issue.

Matambo expressed sadness during a media briefing held in Lusaka on Wednesday that other individuals, especially opposition parties, would exploit a funeral and turn it into a political event.

“I think it is about time that opposition leaders came to realise that their role is to give checks and balances which won’t boarder on trying to incite the residents to rise against the government,” Matambo stated.

“There is a tendency of, especially you coming from the opposition leaders, behaving like hyenas. Cause hyenas will only want to participate where other animals have managed to kill an animal.”

He remarked that opposition leaders should not wait for unfortunate events to make public comments in an attempt to portray the ruling party in a negative light.

“Expect them to acknowledge several good news and several developments which have happened on the Copperbelt.

“I can describe them as they are worse than witches. This is tantamount to witchcraft,” Matambo said.

In attendance, during a media briefing was Acting Minister of Information and Media, Collins Nzovu,

During the briefing, government committed to assisting the bereaved family with the necessary support for funeral expenses until the deceased was laid to rest.

Matambo emphasized that the government was deeply saddened by the tragic incident, expressing regret over what unfolded.

He highlighted that security operatives had been directed to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the killing.

“Government appeals to residents of Mufulira to remain calm while investigations are underway to ascertain what really led to the death of the 15-year-old boy,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the Minister revealed that the government was actively and aggressively addressing the challenges of smuggling.

“Patrols are ongoing everyday resulting in the impounding of over 30,000 bags of mealie meal with 22,000 bags discovered in Chililabombwe,” he disclosed.

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