By 
Robert Mwanza, leader of the Citizens Democratic Party, has accused President Hakainde Hichilema and his administration of tarnishing Zambia’s image on the international stage following reports of breaches on fundamental freedoms.
Mwanza’s comments come after United Nations experts under the Human Rights Council called on the Zambian government to address escalating infringements on fundamental freedoms, citing numerous allegations of arbitrary arrests and detentions.
Speaking to Zambia Monitor in Lusaka on Friday, Mwanza described the UN report presented in Geneva on August 29, 2024, as deeply embarrassing for the nation.
“To think that Zambia would be making such headlines on the international stage in the year the country was set to celebrate her 60th birthday is depressing,” Mwanza said, emphasizing that the nation was expected to report progress and be seen as a beacon of hope across Africa.
He questioned the government’s commitment to its stated goal of restoring Zambia to the “premiere league of nations,” suggesting that lessons should have been learned from past critiques, such as the 2022 human rights report by the US Department of State.
Mwanza accused the UPND administration and President Hichilema of repeating the mistakes of their Patriotic Front predecessors, alleging a doubling down on human rights violations.
He expressed concern over government’s apparent unwillingness to change course despite international criticism.
“At this rate, this government will drive us so deep into the pit of human rights abuses that, by the time a government with a conscience arises, we will be too weak to rise on our feet and reclaim the position we deserve,” Mwanza warned.
He criticized what he termed the administration’s arrogance and blatant disregard for the Zambian populace, who had entrusted them with leadership, calling the situation a new low that demands urgent attention.
Mwanza called for concerted efforts from the church, civil society, political parties, academia, and the international community to pressure the government into action.
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