UN rights chief is concerned about arrest of opposition figures in Zambia’s election
Volker Turk said detainees must get due process as police hold several opposition figures on rejected militia and insurgent allegations.
- United Nations rights chief Volker Turk called on Zambian authorities Wednesday to end arbitrary arrests of opposition members following last week's election, insisting all detentions must adhere to international human rights standards.
- President Hakainde Hichilema secured a second term with around 60 percent of the vote on August 13, yet his victory followed an unusually tense election period marked by accusations of a crackdown on political dissent.
- Police arrested 11 officials after raiding a property where main opposition leader Brian Mundubile was present, claiming they found "high-grade military weapons." Mundubile denied the allegations, stating the officials were unarmed and shot at.
- Mundubile rejected the election results, alleging irregularities, and announced plans to challenge them in court. The Zambian government has not disclosed where the arrested opposition figures are being held or what charges they will face.
- While the European Union Electoral Observation Mission noted a "constrained democratic space," Zambia's currency firmed amid investor relief. Hichilema is scheduled to be sworn in within seven days of the official results, though legal challenges could delay the process.
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UN rights chief is concerned about arrest of opposition ...
UN calls on Zambia to stop arbitrary arrests of opposition figures
The United Nations rights chief has called on Zambia to stop arbitrary arrests and uphold the rights of all those detained. The statement from UN High Commissioner Volker Türk follows reports of arrests and detention of opposition figures in Zambia before and after Thursday’s election.
Associated Press News
UN rights chief is concerned about arrest of opposition figures in Zambia's election
The United Nations human rights chief has expressed concern over the arrest of opposition officials in Zambia following last week's election.
Zambia’s pro-business president wins second term in controversial election
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