Lungu directs new Police Chief to ensure peaceful elections

Police Chief Kanganja

President Edgar Lungu has directed the new Inspector General of Police to ensure that the 2016 general elections are held in a fair and peaceful environment.

President Lungu says he is not happy with the current state of affairs where political violence is always recorded during elections.

He says the police must engage political parties, civil society and the church on the importance of adherence to the Public Order Act.

President Lungu says engaging stakeholders will help reduce suspicions that the police is biased towards the ruling party when enforcing the Public Order Act.

And President Lungu has directed the police not to tolerate criminals who disguise themselves as political cadres.

The Head of State said this on Tuesday at State House when he swore in Kakoma Kanganja as Inspector General of Police.

The President also swore in Deputy Inspector of police Eugene Sibote, Judiciary Chief Administrator Nalishebo Imataa and Ministry of National Planning Permanent secretary Auxillia Ponga.

And President Lungu said he is happy to appoint women in high positions in order for them to contribute to national growth.

President Lungu said the success of the country’s development is anchored on women participation in governance.

He said women in decision making positions must inspire young people especially girls so that they do not see marriage as an option out of poverty.

President Lungu cited the recently held conference on ending child marriage as a forum that has encouraged women to aspire for leadership positions.

And speaking after being sworn in Inspector General of police Kakoma Kanganja   pledged to execute his duties with diligence.

He said he will engage all political parties on the enforcement of the Public Order Act – ZNBC