Police Were Not Informed of NRUPUP Roadshow - Govt

The Ministry of Information and Media says police were never informed that the National Revolution Party-UP (NRPUP) would conduct a roadshow in Kalingalinga and Mtendere.

Speaking on behalf of the Government during a press briefing, Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana said the party's official notification to police was for a presidential rally at Heroes Stadium. He said the subsequent roadshow caught law enforcement by surprise, prompting police intervention.

Mr. Kawana also dismissed reports that anyone was killed during the incident. He said a girl who was injured during the operation was struck by a tear smoke canister—not a live bullet—and was treated and later discharged from hospital.

The statement comes amid growing political debate over last week's confrontation and questions over what transpired during the incident.