Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema was forced to abandon his address on Saturday, November 8, at Chiwempala Market in Chingola after a group of angry small-scale miners disrupted the event.
The President, who had arrived to speak to market traders and residents as part of his outreach activities on the Copperbelt, was scheduled to highlight ongoing government efforts in the mining sector and community development.
However, the gathering was thrown into disarray when some of the miners, reportedly unhappy with issues surrounding their mining operations, began shouting and later throwing stones towards the stage.
The sudden escalation of tension prompted security personnel to move quickly to shield the President and escort him away from the venue for safety.
The disturbance caused panic among traders, residents, and officials who had gathered to listen to the Head of State. Several people were seen running for cover as the stone-throwing intensified.
According to reports, the irate crowds also torched a police vehicle and other properties during the commotion.
Speaking after the incident, police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga accused the crowd of turning violent when the police sought to restore order after they started charging towards the venue where the president was speaking.
Hamoonga said for security reasons, the president was safely whisked away and escorted to the landing pad at Chikola Secondary School grounds.
“However, the violent mob followed the presidential motorcade, throwing stones at vehicles. In the process, the police Toyota Land Cruiser was attacked, its windscreen completely shattered before being overturned and set ablaze,” he said.
Following the commotion, the President took to his social media to reiterate his commitment to address the issue facing Zambians.
“This afternoon we took time to address our people in Chingola’s Chiwempala… Our people also raised very pertinent issues affecting them in regard to the mine and their desire to continue mining at Senseli. The message is loud and clear, and we will work round the clock and ensure that this is done.”
“We are determined more than ever before to turn around our people’s lives even amidst these challenges. We shall do so lawfully,” he said.
While government officials have dismissed the case as an isolated incident, many have pointed to a growing disillusionment of the Zambians who overwhelmingly supported Hichilema’s presidential bid in 2021.
Hichilema, a long-time opposition leader, rose to power in 2021 after his United Party for National Development (UPND) won the presidential elections.
He has, however, been confronted with a disgruntled public in recent times, seemingly unhappy with the direction the Southern African nation is taking.
