LUSAKA-(MaraviPost)-Zambia Police have stormed the Patriotic Front Secretariat in Lusaka and abruptly stopped a scheduled press conference by Acting PF President Given Lubinda.
Police officers reportedly blocked the event moments before it was due to start.
Authorities claimed they had intelligence suggesting that factions aligned to Robert Chabinga and the UPND were planning to cause mayhem at the venue.
The police intervention resulted in the dispersal of PF members and citizens who had gathered for the briefing.
According to PF officials, the party had convened the press conference in full exercise of its constitutional right to freedom of assembly and expression.
Given Lubinda has since proceeded to the Lusaka Police Division headquarters to petition the police command.
He is demanding an explanation as to why law enforcement chose to disrupt the event instead of providing security.
PF members have expressed concern that the police action represents a growing pattern of interference with opposition political activities.
Eyewitnesses reported heightened tension at the Secretariat as officers ordered people to leave the premises.
The incident has sparked immediate political debate across the country.
Critics argue that the police should guarantee safety at political events rather than blocking them.
Supporters of the PF view the disruption as an attempt to suppress dissenting voices.
The police have not yet issued a comprehensive statement on the matter.
More details are expected to emerge as the situation develops.
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