Residents of the Zambezi region are calling on the government to take action against the United Democratic Party (UDP), a party that was banned in 2007 for its secessionist stance. 

The residents alongside the 4 traditional authorities in the region took to the streets of Katima Mulilo today.

The group's demonstration comes ahead of a planned demonstration by the UDP on Wednesday.

 In a petition handed over to Zambezi Governor Dorothy Kabula, the group members, mainly youths, say they are scared of the repercussions of the continued demonstrations by UDP members and sympathisers. 

Dobson Kwala, a community representative, spoke on behalf of the group.

"The stigma from the local and international community, loss of income due to unrest as a result of conflicts that may arise like what happened in 1999, loss of life due to civil war that may arise when this political unrest gets out of hand, loss of economic value due to persisting conflicts that can demoralise the investors' interest."

All 4 traditional authorities handed over petitions to the regional governor, proclaiming their opposition against the continued political campaign by the UDP and calling for government intervention.

The representative of the Mayeyi Traditional Authority is Raphael Mwikanda.

"We therefore ask the authorities to take necessary measures to prevent and possibly stop the demonstrations from taking place and to engage in a peaceful dialogue with all stakeholders to address any grievances or concerns to be raised." 

Ravent Siswaniso spoke on behalf of the Mashi Traditional Authority.

"We therefore request our government to make sure that these unlawful activities are not tolerated and should be stopped with immediate effect and the instigators be held responsible for their actions."

"We express great concern over renewed narratives and activities that seek to divide our people or advocate for the unlawful separation of the Zambezi region from the Republic of Namibia; such action, whether through misinformation, intimidation or promotion of violence, threatens the hard-won peace of our community," stated Herbert Mujiwa, a representative of the Masubia Traditional Authority. 

Eustance Mbanga represented the Mafwe Traditional Authority.

"We therefore urge those with secessionist motives to reconsider their steps and instead appreciate the opportunities that exist within our stable and our democratic nation."

The United Democratic Party has been banned in the Zambezi Region since 2007 due to its secessionist agenda, but members continue to hold unauthorised demonstrations and meetings pushing for independence.