Local Government and Rural Development Minister Gift Sialubalo has pledged that “heads will roll” following the unauthorized demolition of structures in Chingola and Kasompe. He stated that officials who abused their authority by carrying out the demolitions will be held accountable. The action comes after residents of Kasompe Airstrip reported that their houses were demolished by council workers, with allegations that armed officers brutalized men, women, and children during the operation.
Speaking at a press briefing, Minister Sialubalo revealed that preliminary findings indicate the Chingola demolition was executed without a council resolution, proper documentation, or prior notification to the area MP, local councillor, or the affected families. He expressed shock that some councillors participated despite the lack of formal approval. “There are people operating above the law.
We are not going to spare anyone involved. Even if structures are illegal, proper processes must be followed,” Sialubalo asserted. He has directed the local authority to submit a full report identifying who authorized the demolition, who allocated the plots, and who issued any building permits.
Read Full Article on Lusaka Times
[paywall]
“This was wrong timing and harsh, especially in the rainy season,” Matambo said. “We will follow this issue and deal with anyone found wanting. Dialogue, not demolition, is the solution.” Minister Sialubalo further warned that officials, councillors, or party members who defy regulations will not be protected.
“We have to uproot the roots of illegal land allocation,” he said. “We are not going to spare anyone.” Reminds me of the song ‘Mwakamba late’ by Chester. You are very right Minister that heads must roll on this one.
Very inhuman actions indeed. Elections looming. Bill 7 should have a clause that we should be having elections every year, only then can things move. Too late the hero
[/paywall]
