By Hope Musonda
The Democratic Union Party has strongly condemned what it describes as a disturbing rise in extrajudicial killings and the use of lethal force against citizens, many of whom are believed to be reacting to worsening poverty and economic hardship.
In a statement released Wednesday, party president Ackim Njobvu questioned the government’s use of firearms on civilians, describing the response as inhumane and unjust.
“Why are bullets being used on people who are simply hungry, unemployed, and desperate?” he asked.
“These are not criminals. They are Zambians—our brothers, sisters, and children—crying out for help.”
The Democratic Union has urged authorities to choose compassion over violence and to address civil unrest through peaceful, community-centered approaches. “There must be a better way to handle suffering than through gunfire,” the statement read. “Zambia is hurting, and its people deserve dignity, not death.”
The party also renewed criticism of the government’s handling of illegal mining.
Despite promises made during the 2021 campaign, the Democratic Union alleges that little progress has been made. Instead, it claims, trucks reportedly linked to ruling party figures have been spotted transporting gold-rich soil from Kikonge, Mufumbwe—operations allegedly carried out under the protection of government institutions meant to regulate such activities.
The statement drew chilling parallels to past incidents of state violence, recalling the killing of Mapenzi Chibulo in 2016. “We condemned those killings then. We condemn them now. Have we learned nothing?” the party asked. “Our youth—the future of this nation—are being gunned down in cold blood.”
Calling for an end to impunity, the Democratic Union pledged sweeping reforms if elected into office. “We will end these brutal practices. We will restore justice, human rights, and dignity. Because Zambia does not belong to the connected few. It belongs to all of us.”
