Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
The Human Rights Commission is deeply concerned at the continued violation of the provisions of the Public Order Act and the Electoral Code of Conduct by some political party members and leaders ahead of the 11th August elections.
Commission Chief of Information, Education and Training Mweelwa Muleya says acts of defacing or destroying campaign materials, carrying of dangerous weapons, use of threatening, abusive or insulting words are prohibited under the Public Order Act and the Electoral Code of Conduct and must be stopped.
Mr Muleya says the two pieces of legislation are meant to protect and promote fundamental human rights and freedoms as enshrined in the Bill of Rights and must be respected by all stakeholders.
He adds that the use of dangerous weapons, including guns, by political cadres is deeply worrying as it has the potential of becoming a national security concern.
Mr Muleya further states that the unfortunate practice of focusing on personal attacks, ridicule or any other offensive remarks or depiction of political competitors, some of which have potential to incite enmity between tribes or sections of communities during this campaign period is extremely worrying.
He says the Commission is concerned that failure to maintain law and order may result into anarchy and endanger the protection and promotion of fundamental human rights and freedoms.
Mr Muleya says the country should never ever allow political lawlessness to become a national security concern where innocent members of the public, political supporters and candidates will start living and walking in fear of being attacked and their properties being destroyed.
He says the Commission, therefore appeals to all competing political party leaders to direct their members, supporters and sympathisers to respect the provisions of the Public Order Act and the Electoral Code of Conduct.