Police claim no reports lodged, as suspected party cadres allegedly disrupt Phoenix FM show

Phoenix FM’s flagship programme, ‘Let the People Talk,’ failed to air Tuesday morning after a group of suspected political cadres staged an unexpected gathering outside the station, allegedly to prevent Patriotic Front (PF) Acting President Given Lubinda from appearing on the show.

According to Phoenix FM, the disruption occurred shortly before the scheduled appearance of Mr. Lubinda, prompting his team to cancel the interview over security concerns.

About 30 individuals reportedly arrived in two Toyota Hiace minibuses roughly 15 minutes before the programme, which was set to start at 09:00 hours.

Witnesses said the group initially appeared in plain clothes but later changed into PF regalia while loitering near the radio station.

PF Central Committee Member and Kabwata aspiring Member of Parliament, Gabriel Kikombwe, alleged that the group was suspected to be United Party for National Development (UPND) cadres sent by a faction within the Tonse Alliance.

“The group intended to provoke violence and disrupt Lubinda’s appearance, which was expected to respond to recent remarks by former presidential advisor to late President Edgar Lungu, Dr. Chris Zimba,” Kikombwe claimed.

He further alleged that one individual attempted to attack him with a taser during the standoff, describing the incident as a worrying sign of rising political intolerance ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Read More: Badly shaken Tonse Alliance reaches out to committee of bishops to rebuild foundation of coalition, sets date for congress

Meanwhile, the Zambia Police Service said it was aware of reports circulating on social media alleging that ‘Let the People Talk’ was cancelled due to the presence of political cadres.

Police Spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga, stated that no formal complaint had been lodged by Radio Phoenix or any other party regarding the alleged incident.

“We, however, wish to assure the public that the Zambia Police Service remains committed to maintaining law and order and ensuring that all citizens, media institutions, and organizations operate in a peaceful and secure environment free from intimidation or harassment,” he said.

Hamoonga also urged members of the public to exercise caution when consuming and sharing information on social media, and to verify facts before circulating unconfirmed reports that may cause unnecessary alarm or speculation.

He added that should any formal complaint be received, the police would institute appropriate investigations in accordance with the law.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.