THE Government is disturbed by the recent events of violence that are being perpetuated by hooligans against their political opponents.

Chief Government spokesperson Ronnie Shikapwasha said in a statement yesterday the Government would not protect anyone who was perpetuating violence regardless of the political party they belonged to.

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha said the action by the hooligans was unacceptable and advised those involved to embrace the spirit of co-existence and tolerance, despite differences in opinion.

"The Government is disturbed by the recent events where UPND Namwala MP, Robby Chizyuka, Information and Broadcasting Services Deputy Minister, Elijah Muchima, MMD Kafulafuta MP, George Mpombo and PF's Matero MP Faustina Sinyangwe have fallen victim to political violence in separate incidences.

"It is a shame that these events are happening 45 years after independence in a democratic country, where people are expected to tolerate divergent views. We should embrace the spirit of co-existence and tolerance, despite differences in opinion," Lt-Gen Shikapwasha said.

He said it was Government's wish to uphold freedom of expression, as enshrined in the constitution and had created an enabling environment where citizens were free to express their opinion on any issue of national interest.

Major Chizyuka was reportedly harassed and threatened with physical violence by suspected UPND-PF cadres on October 13 this year at Zamcom Lodge before holding a Press briefing.

Suspected UPND cadres in Mwinilunga also harassed Mr Muchima during the same month within his constituency while Mr Mpombo was threatened with physical violence by slogan-chanting cadres at Lusaka Playhouse during a Press briefing.

Mrs Sinyangwe also fell victim to political violence when suspended PF cadres harassed her and prevented her from witnessing the installation of Lusaka Mayor at civic centre on Monday.