Violent protests erupt in the north-central city of Kitwe

Violent protests erupted in the north-central city of Kitwe on 13 November 2008 after authorities arrested a Roman Catholic priest for broadcasting allegedly incendiary reports about the country's recent presidential election on a local radio station. Although international election observers reported that the election of Rupiah Banda of the ruling Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD) reflected the will of the people, the opposition Patriotic Front (PF) has contested the results and has demanded a recount; Kitwe is a known opposition-stronghold. Anti-riot police officers used tear gas to disperse hundreds of PF supporters who torched vehicles, blocked roads in the city and looted stores; all businesses in the city closed down during the riots. Although no injuries were reported, at least 38 protesters were arrested. The PF had also planned to hold another protest in Kitwe on 15 November to protest Banda's victory, but police officials withdrew the permit after the riot. It is unclear if the PF supporters will still hold the protest without the permit.