Kafwaya not hospitalised, Patrick Mwansa not dead – Govt

Government has dismissed as malicious falsehoods the viral social media reports claiming that senior Tonse Alliance figures Mutotwe Kafwaya and Patrick Mulenga Mwansa have either been hospitalized following a shooting or died in custody. Addressing the press in Lusaka, Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana categorically stated that unverified rumors alleging Mr. Kafwaya was admitted to Maina Soko Medical Centre after being shot twice in the chest are entirely fabricated. Furthermore, authorities refuted claims regarding Mr. Mwansa, who is married to former President Edgar Lungu's daughter Tasila, clarifying that he is neither detained nor deceased. The false reports emerged against a backdrop of tense political atmosphere as the nation awaits official electoral outcomes. Mr. Kawana accused certain opposition leaders within the Tonse Alliance of orchestrating a coordinated disinformation campaign. He argued that these inflammatory claims are intentionally designed to alarm the general public, agitate party sympathizers, and incite street protests to disrupt the peaceful tabulation and announcement of election results. Authorities have issued stern warnings against perpetrators of fake news, emphasizing that individuals pushing panic-inducing narratives will face accountability under the law. Home Affairs and Internal Security officials reiterated that security wings remain vigilant to maintain law and order across the country. Citizens have been urged to rely solely on verified mainstream media channels and official announcements rather than unauthenticated digital platforms. Political analysts note that the rapid spread of such alarming rumors highlights the vulnerability of the public information space during high-stakes electoral periods. As the nation holds its breath for final tallies, stakeholders from across the political divide continue to appeal for calm, restraint, and adherence to democratic processes, ensuring that peace prevails over