Zambia: Protesters to gather in Lusaka against alleged police brutality October 30

Event

The Opposition New Hope Movement for Multi-party Democracy (MMD) group has called for a demonstration to be held in Lusaka on Friday, October 30, against alleged police brutality. Participants are expected to gather at the MMD Secretariat and march to the Lusaka Central Police Station; exact timings have not been announced. The demonstration comes after reported incidents of violence by police officers against civilians, including an incident on Tuesday, October 20, in which police officers reportedly assaulted two civilians at the Lusaka Magistrate Courts.

Organizers intend for the protest to remain peaceful and follow coronavirus disease (COVID-19) guidelines; however, clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement are possible. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are expected in the vicinity of the demonstrations. 

Advice

Those in Zambia area advised to avoid all demonstrations and political gatherings due to the risk of potential crowd disturbances, incidental violence, and aggressive crowd dispersal operations by security forces. Travelers should monitor developments and heed any directives issued by local authorities.