A PATRIOTIC Front (PF) cadre has died while two others were injured when political rivalry during a local government by-election in Rufunsa generated into violence.

Police identified the deceased as Crispin Menyani Zulu, who was allegedly killed by a combined group of opposition MMD and United Party for National Development (UPND) cadres.

And President Michael Sata has said the murderous acts are unacceptable and the perpetrators should face the wrath of the law.

"These murderous acts are unacceptable and the people responsible must face the full wrath of the law.

"I therefore instruct the police to do their job professionally by making sure that the perpetrators of this serious crime are dealt with accordingly," Mr Sata said.

According to a statement released by his Special Assistant for Press and Public Relations George Chellah in Lusaka last evening, Mr Sata directed the Zambia Police Service to ensure that the culprits were brought to book.

He described the death of Mr Zulu as disheartening.

"It's tragic that the political violence by the opposition UPND and MMD, which we have been preaching against, has resulted in a loss of an innocent life.

"As a responsible Government we have said time and again that life and property will not be secure if politicians continue preaching violence," he said.

Mr Sata said what had happened could have been avoided if the two opposition parties mentioned in the crime had listened and at least cared for the lives of innocent citizens.

Police spokesperson Elizabeth Kanjela, who confirmed the death yesterday, said Mr Zulu died in the fracas that occurred at Chimusanya Ward where the by-election was taking place.

"Menyani was struck to death by some political opponents when violence erupted during voting," Ms Kanjela said.

The two who were injured were rushed to the nearby Mupashya Hospital where one of them was treated and discharged while the other remained admitted