‘We won’t be intimidated,’ New Heritage Party vows to proceed with rally despite lack of police permit

The New Heritage Party (NHP) has affirmed its intention to hold a scheduled rally on Saturday, June 1, 2024, despite not obtaining a permit from the Police.

Chishala Kateka, the party president, asserted that the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Jack Mwiimbu, failed to respond to their permit request within the required five-day period, as mandated by law.

In a statement released in Lusaka on Friday, May 31, 2024, and provided to Zambia Monitor, Kateka underlined that the party had not received any official response to their appeal.

Furthermore, Kateka revealed that the NHP had received credible information alleging that leaders of the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) had instructed their supporters to disrupt the rally.

“We have reason to believe that UPND cadres will be mobilized, akin to previous incidents, such as during the appearance of former President Lungu and his family before the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC),” she claimed.

Kateka cautioned the UPND leadership, saying that the NHP stands for peaceful, issue-based politics.

However, she warned that NHP members would defend themselves if attacked.

Emphasizing the party’s commitment to democracy and national unity, Kateka called on NHP members, as well as supporters of the United Kwacha Alliance (UKA) and all democracy advocates, to attend the rally in large numbers.

“We refuse to be intimidated into silence. Zambia belongs to all its citizens, and we will continue to fight for a prosperous, united, and peaceful nation,” Kateka said.

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