Human rights advocate and governance and development researcher Sikaile Sikaile has called on Amnesty International to undertake a comprehensive, impartial and evidence-based assessment of allegations involving Emmanuel Jay Banda.
He says allegations including reported incidents of violence, statements allegedly advocating violence against President Hakainde Hichilema and members of the Tonga community, and his conduct surrounding the 2026 general elections.
In a statement Mr Sikaile argues that discussions surrounding Banda Emmanuel’s return to Zambia from Mozambique should not focus solely on due process but should also consider the reported history of conduct, while emphasising the need to verify the allegations, consult victims and witnesses, and apply human rights standards consistently, regardless of political affiliation.
Mr Sikaile, who says he has documented human rights concerns in Zambia since 2014, maintains that protecting the rights of an accused person should not come at the expense of alleged victims, while cautioning that allegations must be investigated fairly and should not be treated as established guilt without due process.
By Victoria Kayeye Yambani
