Police Spokesperson Esther Mwaata Katongo says all those planning to protest against the purchase of 42 fire tenders at $42 million should wait for a response from the regulating officer.

In a statement today, Katongo warned that police would not condone unlawful meetings and processions.

“As Zambia Police, we wish to remind all those with intentions to hold public meetings or processions to ensure that they follow the provisions of the Law by always notifying the Police of their intentions. The Public Order Act demands that all would be conveners of meetings or processions should inform, in writing, the regulating officer of their intentions and this should be in the area where they intend to hold such a meeting. This piece of legislation is very clear on this requirement therefore, all would be conveners of meetings or processions should abide by the provisions to avoid engaging in altercations with Law enforcers,” Katongo stated.

“Police officers have been mandated by the Constitution to enforce the provisions of the Law fairly and to ensure that law and order prevails in the Country. We therefore reiterate and emphasize that all citizens wishing to hold public meetings should follow the laid down procedures and that any act to the contrary will not be condoned by Police.”

When asked if police would allow Alliance for Community Action, Patriots for Economic Progress and singer Pilato to protest on Friday, Katongo said; “They should wait for response from regulating officer.”