UPND Calls on UN to Stop Classifying Suspected Militants as Political Detainees

LUSAKA, September 3, 2026 — United Party for National Development (UPND) Media Director Mark Simuuwe has called on the United Nations (UN) to stop classifying suspected insurgents in Zambia as political detainees, arguing that individuals accused of serious criminal offences should face due process through the country’s established legal institutions. In a statement issued for […]

LUSAKA, September 3, 2026 — United Party for National Development (UPND) Media Director Mark Simuuwe has called on the United Nations (UN) to stop classifying suspected insurgents in Zambia as political detainees, arguing that individuals accused of serious criminal offences should face due process through the country’s established legal institutions.

In a statement issued for immediate release, Mr Simuuwe said the UN should respect Zambia’s sovereignty and its legal institutions when dealing with cases involving allegations of treason, insurrection or other serious offences.

He argued that the UN Charter does not condone terrorism or insurgency and should therefore encourage the lawful arrest and prosecution of individuals suspected of involvement in such activities.

“Since Zambia is a member state to the UN, and a signatory to the UN charter on sovereignty and the need to fight terrorism, the UN must respect Zambia’s sovereignty and also respect the credible legal institutions that Zambia has in presiding over all criminal matters relating to treason or insurrection,” Simuuwe said.

Simuuwe pointed to previous treason-related cases handled by Zambian courts, including the Captain Solo case during the administration of former President Frederick Chiluba, the Shamwana case and the earlier Mushala matter.

He further expressed concern over claims that some opposition political parties in Zambia were sending their members to other countries for military training, saying the UN should also pay attention to such developments.

According to Simuuwe, Zambia has significant experience in peacekeeping and has developed military practices that have contributed to maintaining peace beyond its borders. He warned that Zambia should avoid circumstances that could potentially lead to political instability or civil conflict.

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He also criticised what he described as the UN’s handling of conflicts in other parts of Africa, citing the ongoing crises in Sudan and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Simuuwe argued that the UN should focus on encouraging suspected offenders to face trial rather than advocating for their release without due process.

“The UN should instead centre its effort in calling for trial as by law established,” he said.

He also commended Zambia’s security forces for what he described as their efforts to maintain control of the situation, while calling on the UN to avoid what he termed “playing PR” when civilians are allegedly acquiring military firearms illegally.

The UPND official’s comments come amid debate over the treatment of people accused of involvement in alleged militia or insurgent activities and the role of international organisations in Zambia’s security and justice matters.

The statement represents the position of the UPND and its Media Director. Any allegations concerning military training, insurgency or illegal acquisition of firearms remain matters that require verification and, where applicable, determination through established legal processes.

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