Commonwealth demands end to arbitrary arrests in Zambia, release of political detainees

12 Views LUSAKA, Zambia — The Commonwealth has called for an immediate end to what it describes as arbitrary arrests in Zambia and urged authorities to release people detained for political reasons, as concerns grow over the country’s post-election situation. In a statement issued on 21 August 2026, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey called on Zambia […]

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LUSAKA, Zambia — The Commonwealth has called for an immediate end to what it describes as arbitrary arrests in Zambia and urged authorities to release people detained for political reasons, as concerns grow over the country’s post-election situation.

In a statement issued on 21 August 2026, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey called on Zambia to uphold the rights of all persons, due process and the rule of law in accordance with the Commonwealth Charter and its democratic values.

The Commonwealth specifically called for “an end to arbitrary arrests”, insisting that those detained should be afforded due process and that people held for political reasons should be released.

The intervention comes amid heightened tensions following Zambia’s elections, with opposition figures and their supporters raising concerns over arrests and the treatment of political opponents.

Commonwealth demands investigation into Kafwaya death

The organisation also expressed strong concern over a security operation in Lusaka in which a police officer was injured and former Minister Mutotwe Kafwaya lost his life.

The Commonwealth said it was “dismayed” by the incident and called for a transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Kafwaya’s death.

Secretary-General Botchwey extended condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured police officer a swift recovery.

The Commonwealth did not assign responsibility for Kafwaya’s death but said the circumstances surrounding the incident must be investigated transparently.

Calls for restraint and dialogue

The organisation has also urged all political parties and stakeholders to exercise restraint and engage in constructive dialogue to prevent further escalation.

It said dialogue was necessary to safeguard peace, stability and Zambia’s democratic dispensation.

The Commonwealth’s statement represents a significant international call for the Zambian authorities and political actors to address the post-election tensions through the rule of law and dialogue, while ensuring that political differences do not result in arbitrary detention or violations of fundamental rights.