UPND urges Commonwealth, EU to avoid statements that could “endorse insurgency”

THE United Party for National Development (UPND) has urged the Commonwealth and European Union not to issue statements that could be interpreted as endorsing insurgency or terrorism in Zambia. In a statement issued, UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe said the party had taken note of remarks by Commonwealth Secretary-General Hon. Shirley Botchwey on the post-election

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THE United Party for National Development (UPND) has urged the Commonwealth and European Union not to issue statements that could be interpreted as endorsing insurgency or terrorism in Zambia.

In a statement issued, UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe said the party had taken note of remarks by Commonwealth Secretary-General Hon. Shirley Botchwey on the post-election situation in Zambia.

While acknowledging the Commonwealth and EU’s commitment to democracy, human rights and the rule of law, Simuuwe said the institutions should apply consistent standards when addressing security threats.

“The same measures applied to such threats in other parts of the world must equally apply to Zambia,” the statement said.

The UPND said the Commonwealth and EU should also be concerned by reports of the alleged militarisation of opposition political parties and activities that may constitute threats to national security. It noted that Zambia is a signatory to international instruments against terrorism, and that no political affiliation should shield individuals from scrutiny where credible allegations of organised violence arise.

“We therefore ask: What would the response be if a ruling political party in another Commonwealth country established or supported a militarised group?” Simuuwe said. “There must be no double standards when dealing with matters of national security, insurgency, and terrorism.”

The party said Zambia must not allow “politically motivated militarisation, firearms or military-style training to take root in our democracy.”

The UPND said it supports due process, transparent investigations and respect for fundamental rights, but that the principles must apply to all parties. It added that law enforcement has a duty to investigate suspected crimes while courts determine guilt or innocence.

“The UPND therefore calls on the Commonwealth, the European Union and other international partners to support Zambia’s democratic institutions while respecting the country’s sovereignty and applying consistent standards in the fight against terrorism and insurgency,” the statement said.

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