CONVICT REVEALS THREE DEATHS AT LUSAKA PRISON

Concerns about the conditions within the Lusaka Correctional Facility have been raised after reports surfaced that three individuals died within the span of one week.

The alarming claim was made by 29-year-old Emmanuel Mtonga, a convict from Bauleni Compound, during a court session at the Lusaka Magistrate Court. Mtonga, who was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment for trafficking in psychotropic substances, disclosed the troubling news while pleading for leniency from the court.

Appearing before Magistrate Ami Masoja, Mtonga described dire living conditions at the correctional facility, which he suggested contributed to the recent deaths. His statement prompted Magistrate Masoja to seek further clarification from another witness present in the court. The witness corroborated Mtonga’s account, confirming that three deaths had indeed occurred at the facility in recent days.

The situation has sparked concerns about the state of correctional facilities in Zambia, with overcrowding, inadequate medical care, and poor sanitation frequently cited as challenges.

Authorities are yet to issue an official statement addressing the reported deaths or the underlying causes. However, the matter underscores the need for urgent reforms to ensure humane conditions in correctional facilities across the country.

This revelation comes amidst broader calls for prison reforms in Zambia, with civil society organizations advocating for improved infrastructure, healthcare, and nutrition for inmates to uphold human rights standards.

Further investigations into the reported deaths and the conditions at the Lusaka Correctional Facility are expected.
Best Jere