I am proud of my conduct, I managed to stay away from any violent conduct or criminality in the name of politics- Maxwell chongu

In a recent public statement that has drawn significant attention across political circles in Lusaka, former Citizens First official Maxwell Chongu has firmly distanced himself from allegations linking political figures to militia groups. Taking to social media to set the record straight, Chongu addressed mounting queries from the public and political observers regarding ongoing discussions about vigilante and militia activities within the country's turbulent political landscape. Chongu emphasized that throughout his career—spanning transitions through various political formations—he has deliberately steered clear of any violent or criminal behavior staged under the guise of political activism. He expressed immense pride in his personal conduct, maintaining that political competition should never devolve into thuggery or lawlessness. His remarks come at a sensitive time when civil society and law enforcement agencies have heightened scrutiny over the resurgence of youth brigades and alleged political militias ahead of future electoral cycles. The phenomenon of political cadres and informal security groups has long remained a stain on Zambia's democratic credentials. Successive administrations have faced public pressure to disband and outlaw grouping elements that terrorize opponents and disrupt public peace, particularly in major trading markets and bus stations across Lusaka and the Copperbelt. Chongu's proactive dissociation from such elements highlights the growing anxiety among politicians regarding public accountability and the legal consequences tied to sponsoring or harboring violent factions. Political analysts note that public statements of this nature reflect a broader defensive posture among figures navigating Zambia's shifting political alignments. As parties reposition themselves ahead of upcoming electoral milestones, individuals seeking to rehabilitate or protect their reputations are increasingly eager to distance themselves from past associations