- Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema was rushed to safety after a stone-throwing incident disrupted his speech in the north-west of the country
- The chaos occurred when he met with the locals to assess the damage caused by the market fire and to discuss mining complaints in the area.
- Although he avoided mentioning the attack directly, Hichilema later vowed to address people’s concerns and restore legitimate livelihoods
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema was quickly evacuated after a security scare disrupted his public meeting in northwestern Zambia on Saturday afternoon, November 8.
Source: Facebook
He had arrived in Chingola, Copperbelt Region, to meet residents and assess the results of the fire that destroyed the Chiwempala Market.
How President Hichilema was attacked
According to Africa Publicity, tensions escalated as soon as the president was about to speak, with angry mobs reportedly throwing stones towards the stage.
Hichilema had barely begun to make his comments when security teams intervened, protecting him and escorting him and his message to safety.
Although no injuries were reported, the incident has raised concerns about increased unrest and political instability in the region.
The president’s office did not release a full statement, but the incident sparked a debate on the Internet and within local political circles about public sentiment toward the president and loopholes in the president’s security measures during major events.
Before the disruption, Hichilema had asked them to remain calm and assured the locals that the government was fully addressing their complaints, including those related to the market fire and issues affecting the mining sector.
Hichilema, who won the presidential vote in 2021 after six failed attempts, has been facing criticism over his failure to fulfill his campaign promises.
What did President Hichilema say after the rock-throwing incident?
Later, in a statement through his Facebook page, Hichilema avoided the incident, saying that he was arrested for issues that are bothering citizens in Chingola.
He promised to address the issues and give them a permanent solution.
“This afternoon we took the time to address our people in the Chiwempala area of Chingola following the terrible incident that saw the biggest market burn to ashes here in the Copper Belt. Our people also raised very important issues that affect them about the mine and their desire to continue mining in Senseli,” he said.
Adding that;
“The message is clear and we will work around the clock to ensure that this happens. We are more determined than ever to change the lives of our people even in the midst of these challenges. We will do so legally,”
A similar incident was witnessed in Kenya several months ago when the President William Ruto when he was hit by a shoe in Migori.
How William Ruto almost got hurt in Migori
Ruto was on a development visit to Migori County on May 4 when he escaped injury after the incident.
Source: Twitter
The incident happened in the town of Kehancha as soon as the president started his speech, causing a short pause in his speech.
Videos circulating online show Ruto instinctively dodging the object, which had passed security and almost hit him.
The President was talking about reducing the cost of agricultural inputs for local farmers when the disturbance occurred.
His security team quickly arrested the suspects before they escaped, and Ruto later continued his speech, ordering the police to release those involved.
The action was widely condemned, while the women’s leader of UDA Bevin Bhoke explaining that it is very sad and unusual for the peace-loving Kurian community.
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