Zambian state of emergency

LUSAKA (Reuter) - President Frederick Chiluba declared a state of emergency in Zambia last night. Speaking on state radio and television, he cited a potential threat to security from certain sectors of society. While he did not specify the threat, diplomats said Mr Chiluba was obviously referring to an alleged plot to overthrow his 15-month-old government by fomenting civil strife. Mr Chiluba also said that Zambia was reviewing relations with Iran and Iraq.

Reports of an alleged coup plot codenamed 'Zero Option' surfaced in the Times of Zambia newspaper last week. The president of the main opposition United National Independence Party subsequently confirmed that he had received a copy of the plot from radical elements in the party.