Politics
UPND Challenges Human Rights Watch Over Zambia Report
The United Party for National Development –UPND- has challenged Human Rights Watch...
Picture: Zambia24
By Ruth Chayinda
The United Party for National Development –UPND- has challenged Human Rights Watch over its latest report on Zambia’s post-election environment.
UPND Secretary-General BATUKE IMENDA says allegations of enforced disappearances, torture, arbitrary detention and politically motivated arrests should not be treated as established facts without impartial investigations.
Mr. IMENDA says while the party recognises the role of international human rights organisations, their assessments should be balanced, objective and based on independently verifiable evidence.
In a statement issued to ZNBC News in Lusaka, Mr. IMENDA said criminal investigations and arrests involving opposition figures should not automatically be construed as political persecution.
He stressed that no individual is above the law, regardless of their political affiliation.
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Mr. IMENDA has further called for ongoing investigations and court proceedings to be allowed to continue, warning that demands for the withdrawal of cases could undermine accountability and obstruct the course of justice.
He has also reaffirmed President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA’s constitutional responsibility to protect national institutions, safeguard citizens and maintain national security.
Mr. IMENDA said Zambia has established institutions, including the Judiciary and the Human Rights Commission, to address alleged human rights violations, stressing that these institutions should be allowed to operate independently.
He has urged Human Rights Watch to engage constructively with Zambian institutions and support impartial investigations into the allegations.
Mr. IMENDA said the party remains committed to constitutionalism, democratic governance, the rule of law and the protection of fundamental freedoms.
Source: Zambia24 — Read more
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