PF to discipline Jay Jay, says Mwila

THE behaviour of our Eastern Province youth chairperson Emmanuel Banda leaves much to be desired and as a party, will take stern disciplinary action against him, says PF Secretary-General, Davies Mwila. Mr Mwila said the party would not condone criminal behaviour from any of its members. Mr Mwila said in a statement that PF was a mass movement of the people brought together by common values which include love of country, patriotism, justice and the rule of law. Commenting on the arrest of Mr Banda popularly known as Jay Jay, Mr Mwila said there were no sacred cows in the party, adding that the party believed that everyone was equal before the law. Mr Banda surrendered to police on Wednesday and was charged with aggravated assault, arising from alleged assault of officers at Lusaka Central police before going into hiding. After being granted police bond, Mr Banda was spotted in a convoy of motor vehicles, a matter which police believed was an illegal assembly. “The decision by the Police to grant Jay Jay Banda police bond and how they handle the case is not our baby - that aspect is not a party matter. “However, the party will take stern and appropriate disciplinary action against Jay Jay Banda in line with its disciplinary code,” Mr Mwila said. He reiterated that PF members, especially those in leadership positions must lead by example. Meanwhile, Police in Chipata yesterday arrested Mr Banda for unlawful procession after allegedly bolting from Protea Hotel in his underwear. Inspector General of Police Kakoma Kanganja on Thursday directed Eastern Province Police Commissioner to arrest Mr. Banda, for conducting an unlawful procession and contravening the Public Order Act. Earlier in the evening of Thursday, Police launched a manhunt for Mr Banda. When word reached him that the police had launched a manhunt, Mr. Banda bolted from Protea Hotel in his underwear to an undisclosed area.