The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) says it is deeply saddened by the fire that swept through Lusaka’s City Market in the early hours of Monday morning.
In a statement issued to Komboni Radio News, LAZ President Linda Kasonde says the fire that consumed the property of defenceless Zambian citizens is deeply regrettable, especially in light of the fact that the destroyed property was the only source of livelihood for many of the victims.
Ms Kasonde has since called upon law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate the matter and if indeed the fire was an act or arson, the perpetrators should be brought to book in the shortest possible time.
She said LAZ has noted statements in the media attributed to Republican President Edgar Lungu and Vice President Inonge Wina calling for the punishment of people that caused the fire.
The LAZ President has however cautioned government to exercise restraint until the matter is fully and thoroughly investigated so that the cause of the fire can properly be determined.
Ms Kasonde has further cautioned that any powers exercised by the government in pursuing anyone alleged to be causing the fire must be used within the limits provided by the Zambian Constitution.
She charged that all citizens are guaranteed the protection of the Bill of Rights as provided by the Republican Constitution and such rights should never be abrogated as this would defeat the ends of democracy, constitutionalism and the rule of law in Zambia.
ENDS/SK