19 Jun 2019 | 07:58 AM UTC
Zambia: Anti-corruption rally planned in Lusaka June 21
Activists plan anti-corruption rally in Lusaka on June 21 despite police officials denying their request; heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions expected
Event
Civil society groups are planning to hold an anti-corruption protest in the capital Lusaka on Friday, June 21, despite not receiving permission from police officials. The rally will take place from 13:00 to 17:00 (local time) opposite of Arcades Mall. According to Lusaka’s police commissioner, the protest organizers were denied permission due to a lack of officers being available to guarantee security at the gathering. However, the activists said that they will hold the rally as planned unless the police provide an alternative date. Localized traffic disruptions are anticipated around the protest site. Security forces may attempt to disperse the demonstrators; clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.
Context
The rally is being held under the slogan “Yellow Card Against Corruption.” Activists are calling for greater accountability of public resources following the release of the 2018 Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) report on May 30 that highlighted a 30 percent increase in suspicious transactions involving politically exposed persons in 2018.
Advice
Individuals in Lusaka are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.
