INSPECTOR General of Police Kakoma Kanganja has directed all political parties intending to hold rallies or public gatherings to seek certification from public health inspectors before notifying police of their intended activity.

During the launch of the PF presidential campaign on Wednesday, President Edgar Lungu directed the police and Ministry of Health to ensure enforcement of the COVID-19 pandemic health regulations and guidelines without fear or favour.

In a short statement, Thursday, Kanganja said approval of any public gathering by the police would be dependent on the certification and compliance of health guidelines.

“In view of political activities which are expected to heighten, owing to the fact that we are in a campaign period, I wish to advise all political parties intending to hold rallies or public gatherings to seek certification from Public Health Inspectors, before notifying the police on their intended activity. Approval of any public gathering by Zambia Police will be dependent on certification and compliance to Health guidelines indicated on Public Health certificates obtained from relevant authorities,” stated Kanganja.

“Failure to comply with such guidelines in instances where a public gathering is allowed, shall lead to cancelation of such a gathering. These guidelines are already in existence, as Police we are only re-emphasising the same. Every individual or grouping is advised to keep the guard by adhering to Public Health guidelines as stated by the Ministry of Health.”