Contrary to information spreading around that Zambia is currently under state of Emergency, the High Commissioner of the Republic of Zambia has stepped forward to disclaim this, while assuring the public of non such instability in the land.
It is however true that there was a statement from the Presidency telling of a state of emergency, last week. The High Commissioner makes it known that the statement was about that time true as it was in effort to address the situation which was about to lead to a public state of emergency in truth.
This was reported in a press release from the office of Zambia High Commission in the United Kingdom. The report reads that: “The High Commission of the Republic of Zambia in the United Kingdom would like to assure travelers to Zambia that there is no disruption to normal business and the country continues to operate in a peaceful and welcoming environment.”
It added in confirmation of the said emergency state by His Excellency that: “This follows the proclamation by His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zambia Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu of a situation likely to cause state of public emergency on 5th July 2017 through a statutory instrument number 53 of 2017 as provided for under article 31 of the constitution of the Republic of Zambia.”
Therefore, the “High Commissioner Chikonde emphasized that there is No State of Emergency in Zambia, thus free movement in and around Zambia is assured.” Speaking with the Chief Executive Officer of African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA), Nigel Vere Nicoll and First Secretary – Tourism Mr. Donald Pelekamoyo, the High Commissioner noted that Zambia is peaceful and shall continue to meet the expectations of the British travelling public.
“We appreciate the role that ATTA plays in guiding and addressing the various issues affecting its members in the United Kingdom. Zambia continues to be a beacon of peace in the region and will strive to remain so,” the Commissioner said. Adding that “the proclamation measures are designed to enhance security and ensure public safety.”
Correspondent: Olayiwola A. Ridwan
