SADC: Zambia warns protesters

2007-08-07 12:02

Lusaka - The Zambian government has reiterated its warning to civic groups to drop their plan to stage violent protests during next week's meeting of regional leaders.

The government said that it had received reports that the groups were planning to hold protests during the Southern African Development Community (SADC) 27th summit, which begins on August 16 in the Zambian capital, Lusaka.

Justice Minister George Kunda said in a broadcast on national television late on Monday that a group of civic groups planned to stage riots and strikes during the summit to protest against the controversial new constitution.

Kunda warned: "They will be held responsible for any damage to property, loss of life or lawlessness."

Civic groups threatened with arrests

The Oasis Forum, a coalition of powerful civic and religious groups announced plans to stage peaceful demonstrations during the SADC summit against President Levy Mwanawasa's alleged attempt to manipulate the new constitution.

Home Affairs Secretary Peter Mumba had last threatened the civic groups with arrests if they went ahead with plans to picket the summit, which was expected to discuss the situation in neighbouring Zimbabwe and the latest political impasse in Lesotho.

The Zambian government, opposition and civic groups had differed on the mode of adopting the new constitution, which was drawn up two years ago to replace the one imposed by former colonial master, Britain.

Kunda said: "As Zambians, we are law-abiding and peaceful and should not foment chaos or lawlessness especially when we receive distinguished leaders from SADC."

- AFP