Civil society calls for ‘ political violence ‘ ceasefire

0
The Chairperson of NGOCC Beatrice Grillo announced the declaration of women rights in the first draft constitution at Mulungushi conference centre
The Chairperson of NGOCC Beatrice Grillo announced the declaration of women rights in the first draft constitution at Mulungushi conference centre

The civil society says it is deeply concerned about the increased incidences of political violence in the country..

Non Governmental Organisations Coordinating Council (NGOCC) Chairperson Beatrice Grillo says it was at this juncture that all political party leaders should stand up and denounce violence which she says was a recipe for anarchy and lawlessness .

Ms. Grillo said reports on PF cadres attacking opposition leaders are of profound concern to the women movement.

The Civic leader said this in a statement released to ZANIS in Lusaka, April 17th.

She has also challenged the Zambia Police Service to decisively take action against any perpetrators of violence as it is a serious threat to the country’s peace.

“ Zambia has been known as an oasis of peace and we cannot therefore sit idle and watch the politicians compromise our hard-earned peace, “ she said.

Last week, opposition UPND leader Hakainde Hichilema, with the help of police officers, escaped lynching from suspected PF cadres, fleeing from Ndola’s Sun FM Radio through the roof.

But Home Affairs Deputy minister Stephen Kampyongo said what UPND was proposing is not workable.

Mr. Kampyongo said government would not tolerate lawlessness to occur in the country and warned the perpetrators that they risked being prosecuted.

However, the NGOCC Chairperson said that any breakdown in law and order will affect the most vulnerable of our society especially the women and children.

She said her organisation is alarmed that the opposition UPND which has decided to arm themselves in defence against possible attacks from the PF.

“NGOCC is deeply concerned about the increased incidences of political violence allegedly being perpetrated by ruling PF party cadres against opposition leaders.

“ We’re however happy that the UPND leadership has directed their cadres against engaging themselves in any form of violence or revenge,” she said.

She said her organisation and other women movement is keenly following and monitoring the political situation especially statements issued by the politicians.

“We shall intensify the monitoring of media and public statements made. NGOCC will also be sending a representative to attend any public functions and gatherings of both the ruling and opposition parties to get first hand information,” she said.

The NGO-CC Chief said mothers would from now on not allow selfish and narrow partisan interests from the political players championing power to compromise our peace.

On Zambia commemorates Easter holiday, Ms. Grillo urged all Zambians to follow Christ’s teachings of love, forgiveness, and forbearance.

“As we commemorate Easter holiday, we urge all Zambians to follow Christ’s teachings of love, forgiveness and forbearance,” Ms. Grillo said.

Easter holiday falls on April 18 to 21st, 2014. this is the time when Jesus Christ died and Christians reflect on the King’s demise on Good Friday who later resurrected on Esther Sunday.

NO COMMENTS

LEAVE A REPLY