“You Cannot Cure The Fever By Smashing The Thermometer,” Says M’membe

Socialist Party President Dr. Fred M’membe has criticized the Zambian government, led by the United Party for National Development (UPND), regarding its reaction to political chants heard at Nkana Stadium. M’membe characterized the government's condemnation of these chants as hypocritical, arguing that the ruling party has previously utilized football venues for its own political activities.

Using the analogy of smashing a thermometer to cure a fever, M’membe suggested that the government is attempting to suppress symptoms of political dissatisfaction rather than addressing the underlying issues. The statement highlights a growing tension between the ruling administration and opposition figures concerning the use of public spaces for political expression.