Jay Jay ‘catch and release, ‘my friends under siege,’ Lungu would say- Miti

Renowned human rights activist, Laura Miti says the ongoing ‘catch and release’ of PF Eastern Province Youth Chairman Emmanuel Banda, popularly known as Jay Jay, whom she calls President Edgar Lungu’s ‘friend’ will soon see the President complaining that his friends are being harassed.

A few months ago, Jay Jay and other party cadres stormed Lusaka Police Station and attacked police officers on duty, he spent weeks on the run.

Yesterday, Inspector General of Police Kakoma Kanganja ordered the re-arrest of Jay Jay bearly a day after being released on bond at Lusaka Central Police where he was charged with Aggravated Assault with Intent to Steal.

After his release, Jay Jay went on a joy ride holding a massive parade in Chipata, in contravention to coronavirus guidelines that prohibits people from conducting gatherings.

Apparently, police in Eastern Province, said they have re-arrested, Jay Jay for conducting an illegal procession.

Meanwhile, according to Miti, Lungu will soon cry foul over the arrest. “This Jay Jay is accused of attacking and robbing a police station, but, heck, he is the President’s friend.

“He gets charged with a bailable lesser offense, then goes and has a massive parade in Chipata.

“Next we will hear the President saying my friends are being harassed,” she says.

Meanwhile, the ruling party has said that the party will take what it described as stern and appropriate disciplinary action against Eastern Province Youth Chairman Emmanuel Banda, popularly known as “Jay Jay” in line with PF’s disciplinary code.

In a statement released to the media, PF Party Secretary General Davies Mwila said that PF members, especially those in leadership positions must endeavour to lead by example through exemplary behaviour at all times and that there are no sacred cows in the Party and everyone is equal before the law.