PF Supporters Attack Two Journalists

Over the weekend two supporters of the Patriotic Front (PF) attacked two journalists reporting at an event which saw two factions of the PF violently clashing.

The attackers remain unidentified however the journalists have been named as Francis Maingaila, reporter at the privately owned Zambia 24, and Nancy Malwele, reporter at the independent New Vision newspaper.

In a Facebook post by Phoenix FM Zambia, photos clearly show the injuries the journalists received from the attack.

The attackers kicked Malwele, causing a minor injury to her leg, with Maingaila suffering from a swelling on his face and eye after the two PF supporters punched and kicked him as he tried to resist them stealing his camera, wallet and phone.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) have commented on the incident, requesting prosecution for the attackers. 

“Zambian police must ensure that those who assaulted journalists Francis Maingaila and and Nancy Nalwewle are speedily justified and prosecuted, to send an unequivocal message that violence against journalists will not be condoned” said Angela Quintal of the CPJ.

She added that “Journalists must be free to do their jobs safely and without fear, especially ahead of the country’s August election, when the political temperature will likely increase.”  

The fight followed the return of Chishimba Kambwili to the PF. Subsequently, those who disagreed with his return stormed the party’s headquarters and attacked Kambwili’s supporters.  

Party officials and the police are said to have watched the incident occur without intervening.

Photo: Pheonix FM Facebook