Zambia: Protest planned in Lusaka July 20 /update 1

Event

Civil society groups are planning to hold an anti-corruption protest in the capital Lusaka on Saturday, July 20. The rally will take place outside of the National Assembly of Zambia beginning at 11:00 (local time). It is unclear if protest organizers have obtained police permission for the event.

Heightened security and associated transportation disruptions in the area are expected. Clashes between demonstrators and authorities cannot be ruled out.

Context

The rally is being held under the "Yellow Card Against Corruption" slogan, which has gained significant traction on social media in the past month. A rally for the movement was initially planned for June 21, but was delayed after local police denied protest organizers permission to gather on that date. 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. Activists have been particularly critical of President Edgar Lungu, who has done little to address the charges of corruption.

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.