By Enyichukwu Enemanna
Police in Zambia have cautioned the country’s former President Edgar Lungu over allegations of “engaging in activities that disrupt public order and safety”, threatening to arrest and prosecute him.
This came after a crowd of supporters besieged former President Lungu when he walked around the capital, Lusaka, on Thursday to have a first-hand information on the reported high cost of living.
The former Zambian leader said he was “personally amazed by how high the prices of commodities have become” under President Hakainde Hichilema’s government.
Large number of persons were seen waving at Mr. Lungu as he walked through the city’s streets.
Police in a statement however accused Mr Lungu of causing “significant disruptions to traffic” during his visit.
“We want to emphasise that such actions constitute an unlawful assembly and regardless of one’s former status as a head of state, adherence to the law is non-negotiable,” the police spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga, said.
The police warn Lungu to conduct himself “within the confines of the law and to refrain from actions that disrupt public peace and order”.
“Failure to comply will result in the necessary legal actions being taken.”
Heritage Times recalls that the former leader was last year warned against jogging in public, as police described his weekly workouts as “political activism”.
Mr Lungu, who lost the presidency to President Hichilema in 2021, has announced his return to politics ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Upon his decision to return to politics, the government announced the withdrawal of his retirement benefits and privileges.
Authorities said does not permit a former President who returned to politics to enjoy any retirement benefit.
As a retired President, Mr Lungu was entitled to three security officers, a diplomatic passport, three state cars, a furnished house, medical insurance and funeral expenses on his death.
He also enjoyed immunity from prosecution.
