04/08/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
STATEMENT CONDEMNING THE VIOLENT ATTACK ON CLIFFORD DIMBA (GENERAL KANENE)
LUSAKA, ZAMBIA — The Zambia Association of Musicians (ZAM) is deeply saddened and utterly appalled by the horrific physical attack on one of our esteemed members, Mr. Clifford Dimba, popularly known by his stage name General Kanene, who was brutally hacked during a political rally yesterday.
The Association condemns this atrocious act of violence in the strongest possible terms. Such barbarism has no place in a civil, democratic society, and it stands as a direct assault on the fundamental rights, safety, and human dignity of artists across our nation.
ZAM firmly calls on all political actors and leaders to recognize that violence is not campaigning. Democratic politics must always remain a battle of competing ideas, vision, and service to the people, never a display of physical force, intimidation, or bloodshed.
Furthermore, we take this opportunity to remind all politicians, political parties, and the general public that musicians are not political enemies. Artists are professional service providers who are hired to deliver entertainment and creative content.
Performing at a political gathering is a commercial service and should never be misconstrued as active political allegiance, nor should it turn artists into targets for political rivalry or violence. Musicians must be allowed to practice their craft safely and without fear for their lives.
We urgently call upon the Zambia Police Service and relevant law enforcement agencies to conduct a swift, thorough, and impartial investigation into this matter. The perpetrators of this violent crime must be identified, arrested, and brought to justice without delay to serve as a clear deterrent to future acts of political violence.
We extend our thoughts and sincere prayers for a full and speedy recovery to Mr. Clifford Dimba (General Kanene) and offer our unyielding support to his family during this distressing time.
ISSUED BY:
(Signature)
Chomba Lesa-Malembeka
Secretary General
Zambia Association of Musicians (ZAM)