Staff Reporter
The United Nations (UN) experts have called upon Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema and his administration, to halt a series of severe human rights violations that have intensified under his and the United Party for National Development (UPND) party’s watch.
Recent actions by the Zambian Government have sparked significant international concern, marking a worrying decline in democratic freedoms in the region.
According to reports by the office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (HCHR), there have been multiple instances of arbitrary arrests and detentions targeting opposition leaders, parliamentarians, human rights defenders, and activists since January 2022.
People who spoke to the Harare Post said that the charges brought against these individuals—ranging from unlawful assembly to espionage and hate speech—point to a broader strategy aimed at stifling dissent and curbing participation in the country’s political and public spheres.
Political commentator, Chanda Chimba criticized President Hichilema administration, stating, "This systematic suppression of dissent not only contravenes basic human rights but also deeply entrenches political polarization and ethnic divisions within Zambia. It is essential for regional bodies like the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to intervene and investigate these abuses to restore Zambia’s commitment to democratic principles."
Chimba added that restrictions on gatherings, peaceful protests, and rallies have imposed severe limitations on freedom of expression and assembly.
“The OHCHR highlighted at least 26 such incidents where these fundamental freedoms were curtailed. The crackdown has also extended to the media, with 16 reported incidents of oppression against journalists and media outlets, as well as assaults and intimidation predominantly carried out by members of the Zambia’s ruling party,” said Chimba.
Another commentator, Linda Sikazwe echoed the need for urgent action, remarking, "The international community must not remain silent as Zambia's Government blatantly disregards its own constitution and international human rights standards. Immediate and decisive action is required to prevent further erosion of civil liberties and human rights in Zambia."
Sikazwe added that these allegations and the corresponding international outcry underline the critical need for SADC to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the human rights situation in Zambia.
“Only through such measures can there be hope for reversing the tide of repression and restoring the integrity of Zambia’s democratic institutions,” said Sikazwe.
In its report, the UN has urged the Zambian Government to deescalate tensions by upholding constitutionally guaranteed rights, reforming restrictive laws, and ensuring a safe environment for civic engagement.
