Former president’s security constitutionally guaranteed

By RUTH YAMBAYAMBA

GOVERNMENT has said the security of former Presidents is constitutionally determined and guaranteed.

Ministry of Information and Media Director Thabo Kawana said benefits for former presidents including the provision of security are provided for under the benefits of the former Presidents Act. Cap. 15 of the laws of Zambia.

“The former President occupies a constitutional office and he is entitled to a pension and security upon retirement from active politics,” he said.

Mr. Kawana said the constitution provides for a stipulated number of workers under the office of the former President including security personnel.

He said the withdrawal of excess security at the residence of former President was done in conformity with the provisions of the law.

“The excess police officers were withdrawn in 2022 but did not report to their areas of redeployment and the current withdrawal is just a follow of the previous recall,” he said.

He said the propaganda by some individuals is what gave a false narrative that all police officers have been withdrawn from the former President’s residence which is not the case.

Mr Kawana assured that the government will continue to provide security at the residence of Mr Lungu in line with the law.

And Mr. Kawana dispelled allegations that the government wants to deregister the Patriotic Front.

He advised the party to put its house in order by complying with the Societies Act as contained in the notice from the Registrar of Societies.