Zambian opposition United Party for National Development (UPND) members who marched to parliament on Thursday to deliver a petition to stop the allocation of K1.4 billion towards the construction of President Michael Sata’s house received a shock of their lives when stones rained on them.
PF cadres bundled in two private mini-buses arrived at Parliament Buildings in Lusaka to pelt the UPND members. The UPND cadres were surprised and unprepared for the attack,
The UPND cadres were led by party secretary general Winstone Chibwe and deputy spokesperson Edwin Lifwekelo.
Quick action by police saved the situation from deteriorating into a bloodbath as UPND protestors prepared to retaliate although journalists and security personnel at Parliament scampered in all directions.
When police arrived, 18 PF cadres were arrested and later released on instruction from government officials and will walk without any charge.
Lusaka Police commissioner, Joyce Kasosa confirmed said the 18 had been detained and were being screened to ascertain who were involved in the unruly behaviour.
After police calmed the situation, Chibwe poceeded to hand the petition to UPND Kabompo West Member of Parliament (MP) Lufuma Ambrose.