UPND CADRES THREATEN MALAMBO EAST MP-ELECT AS STATE HOUSE CALLS FOR RESTRAINT

The political atmosphere in the Eastern Province has experienced heightened tensions following the conclusion of the recent parliamentary elections, which saw independent candidate Faith Lungu Bury secure a historic victory in the Malambo East constituency. Making history as the first woman to ever win the seat, Ms. Lungu Bury's triumph has been overshadowed by disturbing reports that suspected United Party for National Development (UPND) cadres have engaged in coordinated threats and intimidation tactics directed at her and her supporters. Local reports and community stakeholders indicate that the tensions began brewing prior to and immediately after the declaration of the poll results. Supporters of the newly elected parliamentarian expressed deep apprehension over safety and freedom of movement within parts of Mambwe District. These developments have prompted urgent appeals from civil society organizations and community leaders demanding immediate intervention from law enforcement agencies to guarantee the safety of elected representatives regardless of their political affiliation. In response to the escalating situation, State House stepped in with a firm directive calling for absolute restraint among political cadres and party functionaries nationwide. Government spokespersons emphasized that democratic contestation must never degenerate into harassment or lawlessness. The administration reiterated that President Hakainde Hichilema's zero-tolerance stance on political violence remains active, warning that any individuals—regardless of their political coloration—found engaging in intimidation or disrupting public peace will face the full wrath of the law. Meanwhile, security wings in the Eastern Province have beefed up patrols and monitoring systems around vulnerable administrative zones to forestall any potential breakdown of law and order. Police command has assured the public that thorough investigations are underway concerning all reported incidents of ha