Political parties call for peaceful fair election in Petauke

By MUBITA KATETE

NKANA Independent Member of Parliament Binwell Mpundu, has called for a peaceful and fair election in the upcoming Petauke by-election.
Mr. Mpundu emphasised the need for a free, transparent election, urging the United Party for National Development (UPND) to establish clear ground rules to ensure a peaceful electoral process.
He has reiterated that a transparent election free from violence and interference is essential for a fair democratic process.
He has also stressed the importance of allowing all political parties to campaign without hindrance and for the election process to be conducted without any form of obstruction.
“We must either agree to hold a normal election, where all parties can campaign freely, witness the voting, or oversee the counting of votes without obstruction,” Mr. Mpundu said,
He has warned that failure to ensure a fair election could turn the situation into a game without direct due to failure by the police to curb violent incidents in Kawambwa that raised concerns about law enforcement’s roles during elections.
Mr. Mpundu expressed disappointment with the involvement of police in election-related violence, questioning the effectiveness of law enforcement in maintaining peace.
He suggested that if the police are unable to prevent violence and ensure citizens’ safety, their presence in the election process might become counterproductive.
“We are willing to leave the observation of the election to the church and other neutral observers, rather than having our cadres involved in the process,” Mr. Mpundu added, urging the UPND to carefully consider their approach to the election.