LOCAL Government and Rural Development Minister Gary Nkombo has expressed disappointment over the police’s failure to arrest any of the cadres who invaded Kasempa Town Council on October 7, 2021.

And Nkombo says he is saddened that cadres could disrupt the peaceful work atmosphere at the Civic Centre in their quest to remove some Council employees suspected to be members of the previous administration.

In a statement, Nkombo called on the police to act professionally and bring to book all those involved in taking the law into their own hands.

“I wish to condemn an incident in which a group of political cadres besieged the precincts of Kasempa Town Council on 7th October, 2021. I express my displeasure that cadres further demanded for the removal of Council Management members and some employees, contrary to the Local Government Act No.2 of 2019 under Section 69 (1) of the Laws of Zambia. I am saddened by the uncalled for behaviour that cadres could disrupt the peaceful work atmosphere at the Civic Centre in their quest to remove some Council employees suspected to be members of the previous administration,” Nkombo said.

“I am further disappointed that Police in Kasempa failed to arrest any of the cadres when it was clear that such an action was out of order as it could create a hostile working environment for the Council employees. As a Ministry, we cannot tolerate such unwarranted behaviour and illegal procession. I am, therefore, calling upon the Police to act professionally and bring to book all those involved for taking the law in their own hands to lock the Civic Centre gate.”

Nkombo assured employees in all Local Authorities of maximum protection.

He implored aggrieved individuals to follow correct procedures or submit petitions where necessary through relevant channels.

“I implore individuals aggrieved with any issue to firmly follow correct procedures or submit petitions where necessary, through relevant channels without taking the law in their own hands. Local Authorities play a critical role in service delivery to the people on behalf of the Central Government, and employees should be allowed to work professionally in a peaceful environment. Iasked the affected officers at Kasempa Town Council to report back for work,” said Nkombo.