. Mucheleka

By SYLVESTER MWALE and NORMA SIAME –
POLICE in Luwingu have warned and cautioned opposition UPND candidate in the forthcoming Lubansenshi parliamentary by-election Patrick Mucheleka, over the alleged assault of Luwingu District Commissioner Patrick Chanda.
Mr Mucheleka appeared at Luwingu Police Station yesterday morning in relation to accusations that he perpetrated violence which led to the beating of Mr Chanda by suspected UPND cadres last weekend.
Acting Northern Province Police chief Lackson Sakala said in an interview yesterday that the former MP was questioned for his alleged involvement in the electoral violence before being warned and cautioned.
“It is true that he (Mucheleka) was warned and cautioned today. He came in the morning together with his lawyer and the matter is in relation to what you have been writing about,” Mr Sakala said.
Mr Sakala advised politicians taking part in the Lubansenshi by-election set for September 24, this year, to abide by the rules of the game and ensure they observed the law.
He warned that the police had deployed enough officers to maintain law and order by dealing with any lawlessness ahead of the parliamentary by-election.
“Apart from this incident, I can say that the campaigns have been peaceful but I would like to say that all those that are taking part in the by-election should maintain peace at all times,” he said.
Mr Mucheleka was summoned following reports that UPND cadres had assaulted Mr Chanda who they accused of campaigning for PF candidate George Mwamba.
At least six suspected UPND cadres were also arrested on Monday in connection with the assault of the district chief.
Police also arrested a UPND member of Tolopa Village for alleged unlawful possession of four voters’ cards and four National Registration Cards.