UPND Calls on UN to Stop Labeling Suspected Militia as Political Detainees

The United Party for National Development has called on the United Nations to stop classifying individuals suspected of involvement in militia or insurgency activities as political detainees, arguing that such cases should instead be handled through Zambia’s established legal institutions.

In a statement issued by UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe, the party says the UN must respect Zambia’s sovereignty and support due process in cases involving alleged treason, insurrection and other criminal offences.

The statement comes amid heightened concerns over alleged military training of opposition-linked individuals outside the country and the broader security situation following the 2026 general elections.

Mr Simuuwe says Zambia has a long history of handling treason-related cases through the courts, citing the Captain Solo, Shamwana and Mushala cases, while accusing the UN of failing to adequately address conflicts and political violence in parts of Africa.

The UPND is also commending Zambia’s security wings for what it describes as efforts to maintain stability, insisting that suspected offenders should be tried according to the law rather than being released without trial.

On Wednesday the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association, Gina Romero, called on the Zambian Government to release political detainees, respect fundamental freedoms and urgently restore democratic accountability.