Zambia: Opposition party to protest in Lusaka, March 10

Event

The opposition party the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) will demonstrate at the Lusaka Civic Center from 14:00 March 10. The action is to denounce the public financing of the Lusaka-Ndola road. It is unclear how many people will participate in the demonstration. The renovation of the highway has been tendered to a private investment consortium but has required a State loan, with the government using part of the National Pension Scheme Authority's (NAPSA) pension reserve to fund the project. This has raised suspicion amongst opposition parties of corrupt behavior within the tendering process.

Increased security and localized traffic and business disruptions are likely near all protests. Party leadership has called for the action to remain peaceful, and clashes with security forces are unlikely.

Advice

Plan for localized disruptions. Heed all official directives. Avoid all demonstrations and areas where security forces appear to be deploying. If crowds form, leave the area immediately.