Govt denies alleged involvement in disappearance of lawmaker, Jay Banda

Minister of Home Affairs, Jack Mwiimbu, has directed security agencies to investigate individuals responsible for linking the government to the disappearance of Petauke Central constituency member of parliament (MP), Jay Banda.

Mwiimbu condemned the unfounded accusations, stating that It was unfortunate that some individuals opted to drag the government into the disappearance of Banda, without any evidence.

Speaking during a press briefing in Lusaka on Sunday, Mwiimbu pointed out that some politicians had issued statements accusing the government of involvement in the matter.

“A number of statements were made to the media by Edith Nawakwi, Brebner Changala and others which are in public domain indicating that the government is involved in the alleged abduction,” he said.

Mwiimbu added that the statement were mischievous and were meant to incite members of the public against the government.

“The governanment has no hand in the missing of the member of Parliament for Petauke Central,” he added.

Mwiimbu also stated that the government was committed to uncovering the truth behind the MP’s disappearance and would not tolerate baseless allegations.

“We will not allow anyone to politicize this issue or tarnish the image of the government,” he warned. The Minister urged the public to provide any information that may aid in the investigation, assuring that security agencies were working tirelessly to ensure the safe return of the MP.

Mwiimbu reiterated government’s commitment to the safety and security of all citizens, including MP and called for calm and cooperation from the public.

He appealed to those behind the false accusations to desist from such behavior.

“Let us work together to find the truth, rather than spreading falsehoods and causing unnecessary anxiety,” he said.

In addition, Emmanuel Mwamba, Chairperson for Information and Publicity of the Edgar Lungu Patriotic Front faction, called on President Hakainde Hichilema to instruct all political and security agencies to cooperate in the investigation of Banda’s disappearance.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.