By IREEN MULENGA
Patriotic Front Media Director Antonio Mwanza says that the directive by President Lungu to the police and Health Authorities to enforce the ban on public rallies is timely and most responsible thing to do.
Mr Mwanza said the ban on all public rallies is in line with the Covid-19 health guidelines as guided by the Public Health Act Cap 295 of the Laws of Zambia.
“It is important to note that restrictions on huge gatherings have been in place since last year when Government signed Statutory Instruments Numbers 21 and 22 to curb the spread of COVID-19 by banning huge gatherings which have scientifically proven to be super-spreader causes of COVID-19,” he said.
He said the new Covid-19 variant and the third wave is deadlier, contagious and it is right that the Police and Health Authorities get to the ground and ensure strict adherence to the Covid-19 health guidelines.
Mr Mwanza said it is irresponsible for anyone to endanger the health and lives of the citizens all in the name of politics.
He said campaigns and elections must be conducted within the health framework that guarantees safety of individuals and the general public.
Mr Mwanza said the claim that the President’s directive is meant to stop the opposition from campaigning is mischievous and gross misinformation as the ban on huge gatherings has been in place since last year.
He said there are many ways in which political parties can effectively engage voters; they can use radio, television, social media, small gatherings and door to door events.
Mr Mwanza said the issue of health and life should not be taken lightly because elections will come and go but a life once lost cannot be replaced
