Police Warn Against Unlawful Protests Ahead of 1 September Inauguration

The Zambia Police Service has cautioned the public against participating in unlawful processions, assemblies and protests, saying it has received credible intelligence that certain groups and individuals are planning to incite people to demonstrate at locations across the country, including during President Hakainde Hichilema's inauguration ceremony, now confirmed for Tuesday, 1 September 2026.

In a statement issued 28 August and signed by Inspector General of Police Graphel Musamba, police said they were also aware of ongoing efforts to mobilise and incite members of the public to protest against the detention of "certain suspects currently in police custody," an apparent reference to the treason investigation involving Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu, along with the eleven others already held over the Kabulonga case, matters MUVI has reported on extensively this week.

Police acknowledged that Article 21 of the Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of assembly and association, but said that right "must be exercised in accordance with the law," and remains subject to lawful limitations necessary for public safety, public order, and the rights and freedoms of others. The statement said police have a constitutional and statutory responsibility to maintain law and order, protect life and property, and ensure public safety, and warned that anyone who participates in, organises, facilitates or otherwise supports unlawful activities "will be dealt with firmly in accordance with the law."

The public was further cautioned against being "incited or mobilised into acts of violence, obstruction of lawful activities, or any other conduct that constitutes a criminal offence." Police reaffirmed that all persons currently in custody "are being accorded their constitutional and legal rights," and said the Service remains committed to upholding the Constitution, the rule of law, and ensuring that all persons can exercise their rights without infringing on the rights of others.

The statement urged the public to remain calm, law-abiding and cooperative with law enforcement during this period.