By Wesley Omondi
MPIKA, AUGUST 28, 2024 (CISA) — The Catholic Diocese of Mpika has formally reported an alarming incident that took place on Sunday, August 25, 2024, involving the invasion of their diocesan offices by a group of young men dressed in red regalia, suspected to be affiliates of a major political party.
The incident, which occurred between 1700hrs and 1800hrs, resulted in the harassment of the diocesan security guard and the disruption of operations at Yusufu Radio, a Catholic-run station within the premises.
“Between 1700hrs. and 1800hrs, a group of young men dressed in red regalia suspected to be affiliates of a major political party, forcefully entered our premises,” stated Rt. Rev. Edwin M. Mulandu, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Mpika , in a press statement.
The young men, suspected to be aligned with the ruling party , the United Party for National Development (UPND) led by President Hakainde Hichilema, breached the main gate of the diocesan offices, removed the security guard from his post, and took over the task of managing vehicle access to the property.
According to the bishop, their apparent intent was to disrupt a political program scheduled to air on Yusufu Radio, featuring Citizens First party President, Mr Harry Kalaba, an opposition leader. The guard, despite his attempts to manage the situation calmly, was overpowered and the intruders proceeded to threaten staff members and residents with offensive weapons.
“Their apparent intent was to disrupt a political program which was scheduled to air at Yusufu Radio featuring Citizens First party President, Mr. Harry Kalaba,” the Bishop further noted.
The Diocese has since lodged a formal complaint with the Mpika police, calling for a thorough investigation and appropriate action against the individuals involved. The Diocese emphasized the need to prevent such occurrences in the future to ensure the safety and security of their premises and the people residing there.
“We have officially lodged a complaint to the police, here in Mpika, to investigate this matter and take appropriate action against the individuals involved,” the statement read.
Bishop Mulandu urged the residents of Mpika, especially the youth, to reject violence and avoid being manipulated by those with political agendas. He stressed the importance of maintaining the peace and security that the town has long been known for, and encouraged those offended by the incident to remain calm and allow the police to handle the situation.
“We urge all residents of Mpika, and especially our Youths, to reject violence and resist being exploited by individuals with political agendas,” the Bishop implored.
The bishop reaffirmed the non-partisan stance of the Catholic Church in Zambia, reiterating the Church’s commitment to this principle. The Diocese of Mpika remains steadfast in its dedication to peaceful coexistence and the safety of its community, entrusting the matter to the intercession of St. Joseph the worker.
