UPND YOUTHS DEMAND PETAUKE MP’S BLOCKAGE FROM PARLIAMENT OVER BROTHER’S ALLEGED THREATS

Tensions have escalated within the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) following calls by provincial youth leaders for punitive measures against a sitting lawmaker. During a media briefing held in Eastern Province, provincial youth leadership demanded that party youths in Lusaka Province ensure Petauke Central Member of Parliament Yaliwe Banda is barred from executing her parliamentary duties. The youth leaders argue that Ms. Banda must first issue a formal apology regarding the conduct and alleged threats made by her brother, Emmanuel Jay Banda, against President Hakainde Hichilema. Provincial Youth Chairperson Lyson Nyirenda, alongside Vice Chairperson Cephas Mandauka, voiced strong dissatisfaction during the briefing, asserting that the legislator's conspicuous silence over her brother's actions implies implicit support or endorsement. Mr. Nyirenda emphasized that public office holders must be held accountable for the actions and utterances of their immediate family members when those actions threaten the Head of State and national stability. The youth leadership contended that failing to disassociate oneself from such incendiary remarks undermines the integrity of Parliament. Furthermore, the UPND youth hierarchy broadened their criticism, expressing deep concern over what they termed a worrying silence from traditional leadership in Petauke, the Banda family, and local religious institutions. Mr. Nyirenda specifically targeted the church in Zambia, claiming it has lost moral ground and failed in its duty to guide society. He maintained that in the absence of robust moral intervention from traditional and religious bodies, political actors and party structures are compelled to step into the vacuum to protect the presidency and maintain public order. This latest development highlights the growing friction between ruling party cadres and opposition-affiliated or independent lawmakers, raising critical questions about the separation of powers and