- Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema was rushed to safety after a stone-throwing incident disrupted his address in the northwestern part of the country
- The unrest occurred as he met locals to assess damage from a market fire and discuss mining grievances in the area
- Though he avoided mentioning the attack directly, Hichilema later vowed to resolve the people’s concerns and restore livelihoods lawfully
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Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema was swiftly evacuated after a security scare disrupted a public engagement in northwestern Zambia on Saturday afternoon, November 8.
Source: Facebook
He had arrived in Chingola, Copperbelt Province, to meet residents and assess the aftermath of a fire that had destroyed Chiwempala Market.
How President Hichilema was attacked
According to Africa Publicity, tensions escalated just as the president was about to speak, with a group of angry individuals reportedly throwing stones toward the stage.
Hichilema had barely begun his remarks when security teams intervened, shielding him and escorting him and his delegation to safety.
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While no injuries were reported, the incident has raised concerns about rising unrest and political volatility in the region.
The president’s office did not release a comprehensive statement, but the incident sparked a debate on the internet and within the local political circles about public sentiment toward the president and the loopholes in the presidential security measures during major events.
Prior to the disruption, Hichilema had called for calm and assured locals that the government was actively addressing their grievances, 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 apparent failure to fulfill his campaign promises.
What did President Hichilema say after stone incident?
Later, in a statement through his Facebook page, Hichilema steered clear of the incident, stating that he was seized of the issues bedevilling the citizenry in Chingola.
He promised to address the issues and give them lasting solutions.
“This afternoon we took time to address our people in Chingola’s Chiwempala area following the unfortunate event that saw the biggest market burning to ashes here on the Copperbelt. Our people also raised very pertinent issues affecting them in regards to the mine and their desire to continue mining at Senseli,” he said.
Adding that;
“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,”
Such an incident was witnessed in Kenya months ago when President William Ruto was hit with a shoe in Migori.
How William Ruto almost got injured in Migori
Ruto was on his development tour of Migori County on May 4 when he narrowly avoided injury after the incident.
Source: Twitter
The incident occurred in Kehancha town just as the president began his address, prompting a brief pause in his speech.
Footage circulating online shows Ruto instinctively deflecting the object, which had bypassed security and nearly struck him.
The president had been speaking on lowering farming input costs for local farmers when the disruption took place.
His security team quickly apprehended the suspects before they could flee, and Ruto later resumed his speech, instructing police to release those involved.
The act drew widespread condemnation, with UDA women’s leader Bevin Bhoke describing it as deeply regrettable and uncharacteristic of the peace-loving Kuria community.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
