By Thulasizwe Tembo in Ndola
The Patriotic Front in Ndola has suspended Ndola District Youth Chairman Oscar Himanga after he was arrested for smuggling mealie meal to the DRC.
This comes barely 48 hours after PF Copperbelt Chairman Nathan Chanda MCC warned people involved in illegal activities of stern action.
Ndola District PF Chairman Benjamin Chitondo said the ruling party in Ndola is saddened by the conduct of Himanga.
“I have suspended our Youth Chairman for his involvement in smuggling of mealie meal. I have given him seven days to exculpate himself and show cause why further action should not be taken against him.
“This is sending a warning that we will not allow. What he is involved in is a very serious offense. As PF we are trying to make the lives of the people easy. It is a shame for him to be involved in such,” he said.
Mr Chanda had said the party will not protect anyone involved in illegal activities using the name of the ruling party.
In a statement, Mr Chanda notes that there are people that are masquerading as PF to dent the name of the party.
“We would like to sternly warn people that want to masquerade as PF officials or members to stop soliciting for favors in the name of PF party on the Copperbelt Province. We want to categorically state that PF is a party of discipline and in everything procedure is followed.
“We will not protect anyone who wants to use the name of the party for illegal activities. The PF on the Copperbelt is on high alert and the law will take its course on anyone that will be found wanting. Those that want to use the name of the party, within or coming from outside the Copperbelt province soliciting for things from companies, getting illegal land and illegal business, intimidating innocent people and breaking the law with impunity and any other activities that are criminal in nature that they will not be to tolerated.”
“The PF under the leadership of President Edgar Lungu will never allow any acts of criminality. PF leadership on the Copperbelt will follow the law in everything that it does. We, therefore ask our members and those that sympathize with us to do clean business,” he said.
He said the law is clear and he will follow the law.
