By 
The visiting United Nations Special Rapporteur, Irene Khan, has observed that Zambia’s human rights situation stood at a crossroads as the country prepares for general elections.
Khan, however, acknowledged the country’s “significant political transition” following the United Party for National Development (UPND)’s victory, marking the end of a decade-long rule characterized by serious human rights violations.
She made these remarks on Friday when she met President Hakainde Hichilema at State House, concluding her 10-day visit to Zambia.
“My overall observation is that human rights stand at a crossroads as the country prepares for general elections,” Khan stated. “There has been a significant political transition with the UPND’s victory, ending a decade-long rule marked by grave human rights violations.”
She commended the Zambian government’s openness to international human rights dialogue and its willingness to address existing challenges.
“We appreciate the government’s willingness to engage with international human rights mechanisms and constructively address human rights concerns with the UN,” she said.
Khan announced that she would submit a detailed written report, which would first be shared with the government for comments and corrections before being presented to the UN Human Rights Council in June.
In response, President Hichilema assured Khan of his administration’s commitment to enhancing human rights in Zambia, particularly the right to freedom of expression and opinion.
“You agreed to come and conduct this assessment, which I believe reflects the government’s openness to discussions on freedom of expression as part of human rights,” Hichilema said.
He emphasized that Zambia had not hosted such visits for many years, adding that independent assessments could provide valuable insights into the country’s progress, particularly in the wake of the recent political transition.
“Had such visits occurred in the past, they would have contributed to a more comprehensive understanding of the situation then and what it is now,” Hichilema added.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments