Zambia’s opposition leader warns of tensions ahead of polls
Associated PressLUSAKA, Zambia — Zambia’s main opposition leader has warned the military deployed on the streets ahead of crucial elections Thursday against “aiding a particular party” and raised concern that the country could fall into chaos if the polls are “mismanaged.” Hakainde Hichilema, addressing reporters Wednesday, spoke of rising tensions including reports of violence between supporters of the major political parties. No voter should feel intimidated to go and vote.” Fears of post-election unrest have been voiced by many in the copper-rich country, including by Lungu and the Electoral Commission of Zambia. Lungu, dismissing the opposition as “perpetual crybabies” for alleging pre-election intimidation and violence, told an African Union observer mission during a meeting that the post-election period was likely to be “acrimonious” according to the pro-government The Times of Zambia newspaper. But Hichilema, the opposition leader, said the ban on announcing unofficial results should be defied because it could lead to rigging and “even more instability.” “Phones must be allowed in the polling stations because we need to do parallel voter tabulation.
History of this topic
Zambians cheer inauguration of new leader Hakainde Hichilema
Associated Press
Zambians cheer inauguration of new leader Hakainde Hichilema
The Independent
Zambia celebrates peaceful transfer of power after elections
Associated Press
Zambia celebrates peaceful transfer of power after elections
The Independent
Zambia's opposition leader takes lead in presidential poll
The Independent
Celebrations as Zambian opposition candidate leads in count
Associated Press
More army deployed as uneasy Zambia counts votes after polls
The Independent
Zambian president warns of growing tensions ahead of polls
Associated PressDiscover Related
)
)
