Zambia’s HRC Calls Out Police Abuses
The Zambia Human Rights Commission (HRC) has raised concerns over what they call the “continued arbitrary application” of the Public Order Act by the Zambia Police Service.
The HRC specifically criticizes the police for disrupting opposition political parties and leaders from exercising their right to freedom of assembly.
HRC Chairperson, Dr. Pamela Towela Sambo, cited an incident in Kabwe District where a police officer interrupted a meeting between former President Edgar Lungu and Bishop Clement Mulenga.
Dr. Sambo condemned this “invasion” of the Catholic Bishop’s office as an attempt to suppress Mr. Lungu’s right to assemble.
The HRC acknowledged the government’s apology for the incident but stressed the need for more than just words.
Dr. Sambo urged the government to address the “growing concerns” over police actions against opposition parties and take concrete steps to prevent future violations.
The right to freedom of assembly is a cornerstone of democracy, and the HRC emphasizes the government’s obligation to respect it equally for all citizens.
Dr. Sambo called for an end to the “systematic erosion of human rights” by the police.
