Citizens First (CF) President Harry Kalaba has condemned what he describes as the selective application of the law and growing political intolerance under the United Party for National Development (UPND) government.
Mr. Kalaba says it is concerning that the ruling party is now seeking court intervention in matters involving elected Members of Parliament after, according to him, denying citizens an opportunity to validate the presidential election outcome. He says the development risks undermining public confidence in the justice system.
The former foreign affairs minister has also expressed concern over reports of arrests and prolonged detentions of opposition supporters, some of whom he says have allegedly been held for up to 14 days without appearing before a court. He adds that the party has received information suggesting a plan to arrest or abduct newly elected Mafinga South Member of Parliament Faith Munthali.
Mr. Kalaba says the developments appear to support concerns previously raised by United Nations Special Rapporteurs regarding democratic space in Zambia. He has since called on civil society organisations, faith-based groups and the clergy to speak out in defence of constitutional democracy, justice and national unity.
Meanwhile, Ms. Munthali has defended the UN Special Rapporteurs’ report on Zambia, saying it reflects experiences faced by some opposition members. She says three members of her campaign team remain in detention in Mafinga and are yet to appear before court.
By Mike Mwendachabe
