COMMUTERS RIGHTS ASSOCIATION CALLS FOR ORDER IN BUS STATIONS AND MARKETS AFTER VIOLENT CLASHES

The Commuters Rights Association of Zambia has expressed alarm over violent incidents in bus stations and markets in Kitwe and other towns, warning that public safety is being compromised in the post-election period. Association President Aron Kamuti said a fracas between taxi drivers and bus drivers in Kitwe yesterday forced passengers to flee for safety, a situation he described as dangerous and unacceptable.

He also raised concern over the activities of so-called "kadzas" who have been illegally collecting large sums of money from traders in markets, including in Lusaka and Kitwe, and in some cases attempting to take over functions reserved for local authorities. Kamuti cited an incident in Chipata this morning where the Commissioner of Police intervened to stop kadzas from demanding the removal of council staff, calling it further evidence that the trend must be checked urgently.

Kamuti appealed to citizens to remain calm and to use only designated and legally recognized bus stations and markets so that they are protected by the law. He urged law enforcement agencies to act decisively and without leniency against anyone found taking the law into their own hands, saying offenders must be arrested, prosecuted and jailed.

The Association President stressed that elections are over and the country must return to normalcy, with people free to travel and trade regardless of political affiliation. He called for unity, peaceful coexistence and vigilance from the police to safeguard the peace Zambians have long enjoyed, noting that tribalism has no place in the country and that all citizens deserve dignity and protection under the law.