President Edgar Lungu has invoked article 31 of the republican constitution which guides the nation on how to deal with an existing situation.
Speaking last night when he addressed the nation, President Lungu said that he has issued a Statutory Instrument proclaiming that a situation exists which if allowed to continue may lead to a state of public emergency.
The Head of state explained that this will be tabled in the National Assembly in line with article 31, sub article 2 of the republican constitution and hoped that Members of Parliament will fully support the proclamation.
President Lungu stated that the events that have characterized the country were no mare acts of spontaneous criminality but pre-meditated acts which if left unchecked could have serious social and economic consequences capable of drawing the country backwards.
He said it is unfortunate that the peace and tranquility which the country is known for has in the recent past been eroded by a few unpatriotic Zambians through acts of sabotage, thereby endangering the lives of many citizens.
Presidents Lungu however emphasized that the proclamation should not instill fear in law abiding citizens but should instead provide a sense of security.
Ends/ SK