TONSE- PAMODZI ALLIANCE DEMANDS K5 MILLION COMPENSATION FROM POLICE OVER DISRUPTED CAMPAIGN ACTIVITIES

LUSAKA – The newly formed TONSE-PAMODZI Alliance, a political coalition bringing together The Resolute Party (RP) and the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP), has escalated its grievances against the Zambia Police Service by formally demanding K5 million in compensation. The alliance alleges that its campaign activities were unlawfully disrupted by law enforcement, leading to substantial financial losses and a curtailment of their democratic rights ahead of upcoming by-elections in various constituencies across the country. According to a statement released by the alliance's spokesperson, Mr. Chanda Mwape, the police interventions included the arbitrary dispersal of rallies, confiscation of campaign materials, and the temporary detention of party cadres without clear justification. "These actions are not only a blatant abuse of power but a direct assault on the fundamental freedoms enshrined in our Constitution, particularly the rights to assembly and political expression," Mr. Mwape stated during a press briefing held in Lusaka yesterday. He further elaborated that the K5 million compensation is intended to cover logistical costs, lost campaign opportunities, and the reputational damage incurred due to the police's heavy-handed approach. The alliance cited specific instances in areas such as Chililabombwe and Mazabuka, where planned community engagements and rallies were reportedly shut down by police officers, often without presenting court orders or valid reasons. "Our members were intimidated, and our message was prevented from reaching the electorate," added Ms. Natasha Banda, Secretary General of the NRPUP, emphasizing the disproportionate impact on smaller parties striving to gain visibility. She highlighted that such actions create an uneven playing field, disadvantaging opposition parties and undermining the integrity of the electoral process. This demand for compensation underscores a growing tension between political oppositi