GENEVA: UN experts on Thursday condemned a “downward spiral of infringements” on fundamental freedoms in Zambia, citing a rise in arbitrary arrests, intimidation, and crackdowns on peaceful protests.
Three United Nations special rapporteurs highlighted multiple allegations of unlawful detentions related to assembly, espionage, hate speech, and seditious activities. Those targeted include opposition leaders, parliamentarians, and human rights activists, with increasing restrictions on meetings and demonstrations.
“These actions have led to heightened political polarization and self-censorship,” the experts stated, referencing 26 cases reported since January 2022. They warned that the arrests and restrictions are undermining freedoms of opinion, expression, association, and assembly, potentially deepening ethnic and regional divisions.
Earlier this month, Fred M’membe, leader of the opposition Socialist Party, was arrested for a social media post deemed “seditious,” according to police.
The statement was issued by the UN special rapporteurs on human rights defenders, freedom of assembly, and freedom of expression. As independent figures appointed by the UN Human Rights Council, they do not represent the United Nations itself.
The experts expressed concern that the government is using outdated legal provisions, such as “seditious intention,” to stifle legitimate expression. They urged the Zambian government to address the destructive patterns of attack and retribution between ruling and opposition parties and to engage in dialogue with the opposition.
Human Rights Watch’s 2024 report also noted increased intolerance towards political opposition, arbitrary detention, censorship, and threats to freedom of expression and assembly in Zambia.
Last April, the UN Human Rights Committee raised alarms over restrictions on peaceful assemblies, including last-minute cancellations, arbitrary arrests, and violence during anti-government protests and opposition gatherings.
