European Parliament Adopts Resolution on Zambia Post-Election Situation

The European Parliament has adopted a resolution on Zambia’s post-election situation and the killing of former Cabinet Minister Mutotwe Kafwaya following a debate in Strasbourg. The resolution, titled “Post-electoral repression in Zambia and the killing of Mutotwe Kafwaya,” was…

The European Parliament has adopted a resolution on Zambia’s post-election situation and the killing of former Cabinet Minister Mutotwe Kafwaya following a debate in Strasbourg.

The resolution, titled “Post-electoral repression in Zambia and the killing of Mutotwe Kafwaya,” was put to a roll-call vote on Thursday, September 17, 2026, and adopted by Members of the European Parliament. The Parliament’s official legislative record confirms that the resolution was scheduled for debate on September 16 and a plenary vote on September 17.

The debate focused on concerns over arrests and detentions of opposition figures following Zambia’s August 13 elections, as well as the circumstances surrounding Kafwaya’s death during a security operation on August 14.

Michael McNamara, who led the European Union Election Observation Mission to Zambia, described the developments during the post-election period as a “profound shock” to him.

Mr. McNamara called for a speedy and transparent investigation into Kafwaya’s fatal shooting and said there should be accountability for those exercising command responsibility.

He also called for speedy and transparent proceedings for those facing treason charges and said the accused should have unimpeded access to their lawyers.

Kafwaya was fatally shot during a security operation at a property linked to opposition leader Brian Mundubile on August 14.

Authorities have said officers encountered armed resistance during the operation, while opposition figures have disputed the official account.

Amnesty International has separately called for an independent and transparent investigation into the killing.

The adoption of the resolution formally places the European Parliament’s position on Zambia’s post-election developments on record, following the parliamentary debate.