Views: 5
Even religious institutions have faced repercussions, with clergy members reportedly arrested and meetings disrupted by law enforcement.
An independent panel of experts from the United Nations has raised alarms regarding the gradual erosion of democratic freedoms in Zambia, urging the government to uphold constitutionally guaranteed rights.
In a statement on Thursday, the experts highlighted a troubling trend of arbitrary arrests and detentions targeting opposition leaders, human rights defenders and activists.
Since January 2022, the panel has documented at least 26 cases involving arrests under various charges, including unlawful assembly, espionage, hate speech and seditious practices.
These actions appear aimed at stifling dissent and limiting participation in political and public life, according to the experts.
“These practices have resulted in increasing political polarization and self-censorship,” the experts said.
They noted that the crackdown on freedom of opinion, expression, association, and assembly poses a significant threat to the foundations of a functioning democracy.
The situation risks exacerbating divisions within society, particularly along ethnic and regional lines, thereby further shrinking civic space in the country.
The panel also reported 16 incidents involving journalists and media outlets, as well as 11 clashes and assaults primarily instigated by ruling party members against opposition supporters.
Notably, even religious institutions have faced repercussions, with clergy members reportedly arrested and meetings disrupted by law enforcement.
To de-escalate tensions, the experts called on the Zambian government to uphold its constitutional obligations and create a safe environment for civic engagement.
They emphasised the need for legislative reforms, specifically targeting laws such as the Public Order Act and the Penal Code, to align them with international human rights standards.
The experts expressed particular concern over the misuse of legal provisions such as accusations of “seditious intention,” to suppress legitimate expressions of dissent.
They highlighted serious deficiencies in the justice system, including premature arrests and delays in court proceedings.
While the panel acknowledged the government’s efforts to combat hate speech and promote national unity, they stressed that these measures must comply with national laws and international human rights standards.
They also urged the government to foster dialogue with opposition parties to disrupt the cycles of hostility that have characterized Zambian politics for decades.
The panel said it remains in contact with the Zambian government to address these pressing issues, reinforcing the call for a renewed commitment to democratic principles and the protection of human rights.
JN/APA