Zambia : No Political Prisoners In Zambia

The Office of the Attorney-General has rejected claims that people recently arrested by police are being politically detained, saying those in custody are facing serious criminal charges.

In a statement made available to ZNBC News in Lusaka today, Acting Attorney-General Marshal Muchende said Zambia has no prisoners of conscience or political prisoners.

Mr. Muchende said the individuals apprehended by police have been charged with offences including treason and terrorism-related crimes.

He said the charges stem from allegations of sponsoring, aiding and abetting unlawful paramilitary training, as well as other conduct allegedly in breach of Zambian law.

Mr. Muchende said the cases are now before courts of competent jurisdiction, where the accused persons will have an opportunity to receive due process.

He said the recent handover of people who had sought refuge at the United Nations House in Lusaka was facilitated by the Special Envoy of the United Nations Secretary-General to enable the individuals to face due process before Zambian authorities.

Mr. Muchende said there was no established basis to conclude that the individuals were being persecuted because of their political views or affiliations.

He said the Constitution does not provide immunity from criminal liability on the basis of political status, adding that no one is above the law and no one is beneath its protection.

Mr. Muchende said Government regards the arrests as matters of national security and public safety.

He said the State has a responsibility to protect the country’s constitutional order and territorial integrity, as well as citizens from terrorism, unlawful armed formations and attempts to undermine the State through violence or insurrection.

Mr. Muchende said Government remains committed to fundamental human rights and freedoms, including the rights to life, liberty, expression, association and conscience.

He said Government also remains committed to its partnership with the United Nations and its human rights mechanisms, and will continue to engage through dialogue and technical cooperation.

The statement was issued in response to remarks by the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Right to Freedom of Peaceful Assembly and of Association.

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