Musamba warns against political violence ahead of Mandevu by-election

Inspector General of Police, Graphael Musamba, has warned against lawlessness and political violence ahead of the Mandevu Constituency parliamentary by-election scheduled for November 5, 2026.

Musamba said police would not tolerate political violence, unlawful assemblies or any conduct that threatened public peace and security, warning that anyone who broke the law would be dealt with firmly and impartially, regardless of political affiliation or status.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Saturday, Musamba said the Zambia Police Service had put in place a comprehensive electoral security plan to ensure a peaceful and secure environment as campaigns gained momentum in Mandevu.

He said Mandevu Constituency had been divided into three security zones, each under a dedicated commander supported by adequate officers to enhance visibility, conduct patrols and ensure a quick response to incidents, with additional officers mobilised from within Lusaka Province.

“The Zambia Police Service has put in place a comprehensive electoral security plan aimed at ensuring a peaceful and secure electoral environment,” Musamba said.

He said adequate measures had been put in place to manage campaigns and movements on polling day to avoid disruptions and prevent clashes, while all reported cases of electoral violence would be investigated expeditiously.

Musamba urged all political parties and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and in strict compliance with the law.

“All parties must respect the campaign timetable agreed upon under the Electoral Commission of Zambia,” he said.

Musamba said the case that occurred in Mandevu Constituency on October 22, 2026, in which suspected members of a political party were allegedly assaulted, was among those to be investigated.

He urged parties to refrain from inflammatory language, hate speech, tribal remarks and ferrying cadres for intimidation.

“Let me be clear: The Zambia Police Service will not tolerate political violence, unlawful assemblies or any conduct that threatens public peace and security,” Musamba said.

He appealed to civil society, the church, media and other stakeholders to work with police and the Electoral Commission of Zambia.

Musamba also urged Mandevu residents to turn out in large numbers to exercise their democratic right peacefully and report suspicious activities to police.

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