ZAMBIA: Mwanawasa smooths DRC concerns

[ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations]

JOHANNESBURG, 4 Oct 2004 (IRIN) - Zambia's President Levy Mwanawasa has apologised to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for comments made by his vice-president alleging the country was harbouring individuals who were working against the Zambian state.

Vice-President Nevers Mumba had reportedly told local media that the DRC was being used to channel illicit funds to some opposition parties, who were bent on toppling the Zambian government.

His comments triggered a minor diplomatic row and last week the DRC's ambassador to Zambia called for a verification mission to the country to produce evidence in support of the claims.

Mwanawasa stepped into the fray at the weekend by admonishing his deputy for making the accusations. "I wish to take this opportunity to apologise to the DRC over what happened," Mwanawasa told journalists in the capital, Lusaka, according to Reuters news agency.

Acting foreign affairs permanent secretary Lucy Mungoma told IRIN on Monday that "in future the correct diplomatic channels" will be used by Zambian authorities to address matters of security.

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