Election Delayed After Beatings

Zambia’s ruling party pushed back to today a vote to help President Frederick Chiluba prolong his rule. The move came after a day in which Chiluba supporters allegedly beat up several dissenting top officials.

The ballot on amending the Movement for Multiparty Democracy constitution so Chiluba can remain leader until he is defeated at elections was delayed after four Cabinet ministers and two deputy ministers said young Chiluba supporters attacked them. Mines and Minerals Development Minister Syamukayumbu Syamujaye reportedly suffered a fractured arm.