Maravi

(LUSAKATIMES) Rupiah avails himself to Barotseland

Rupiah avails himself to Barotseland
Monday, December 20, 2010, 13:42

President Rupiah Banda will tomorrow travel to Western Province for the official opening of the MMD provincial conference, State House has announced.

Following the recent violence that has persisted between the police in Western Province and a rebel group called the “Barotse Movement”, President Banda is expected to also address the Barotseland crisis.

Yesterday government warned that people involved in causing confusion in Western Province would face the wrath of the law. Home Affairs minister Mkhondo Lungu said police were still investigating the matter to establish the cause of Saturday’s riot after 21 were arrested in connection with the violence.

On Saturday Alliance for Democracy and Development president Charles Milupi was injured following attacks by some unknown people when he attempted to sing the national anthem during a political rally.

But according to State House, President Banda’s trip to Mongu is primarily to officially open the Provincial party conference.

State House special assistance for press and public relations, Dickson Jere stated that President Banda would be in Mongu for a one-day working visit without stating whether the Head of Sate would address the Barotseland issue.

A group of people in the area has been calling for the secession of their territory from the republic of Zambia in order to form a monarchy under the Lozi King.

Labels: BAROTSELAND AGREEMENT, MMD, RUPIAH BANDA

posted by MrK @ 1:31 PM