UN raises alarm over Zambia opposition crackdown
By George Zulu
UNITED Nations (UN) High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk says the world body’s human rights watchdog is deeply disturbed and concerned about human rights abuses in Zambia.
In a statement seen issued yesterday, Türk said reports of the arrest and detention of opposition leaders before, during and after the August 13 election were a source of concern for the international community.
“I am concerned by reports of arrests and detentions of opposition members in Zambia before and after the 13 August general election. All arrests and resulting court proceedings, whatever the gravity of the alleged conduct or specific charges filed, must be fully consistent with international human rights standards, as well as Zambian domestic law,” he said.
He said the Zambian government must stop arresting people arbitrarily.
Türk urged the United Party for National Development (UPND) led government to respect the rule of law and the rights of the detainees.
“I urge the authorities to stop arresting people arbitrarily and to uphold fully the due process rights of all those detained. Specifically, all detainees must be notified, at the time of their arrest, of the reasons for their arrest and promptly informed of any charges against them,” he said.
He said the government must ensure that all those arrested and detained have access to family and legal representation of their choice in accordance with international standards.
“They must also be allowed access to legal representation, as well as communication with their families, treated humanely while in custody and brought promptly before a judge. They must as well have access to effective remedies for any violations of their rights,” Türk said.
He said it was important that the Zambian government respects the rule of law during this critical time.
“At this critical post-election juncture, it is essential to uphold respect for human rights and ensure that any grievances arising from the election are voiced and addressed peacefully, and in accordance with international human rights law,”Türk said.
