Muslim woman sues govt over alleged tampering with her dress, claims violation of religious rights

Rizicky Fatacky, a Muslim and active member of the FixZesco movement, has filed a lawsuit against the State, alleging that police officers forcibly removed her hijab in a breach of her religious rights.

In a statement to the Lusaka High Court, Fatacky, a resident of Lilanda Estates in Matero Constituency, seeks a declaration that the police action was illegal and a gross violation of her fundamental human rights, specifically her freedom of conscience and religion.

She is also seeking compensation for the emotional and psychological trauma she experienced.

Fatacky described the incident as humiliating and a direct assault on her rights as a Muslim woman.

She claimed that as part of her faith, she was required to wear a hijab, which should only be seen by close male relatives such as her husband, brother, grandfather and son.

The incident occurred on July 10, 2024, when Fatacky and three colleagues were detained at Lusaka Central Police Station for over 10 hours without being informed of the reason for their detention.

During their time in custody, Fatacky was allegedly coerced into removing her hijab despite her insistence that it violated her religious principles.

The officers reportedly dismissed her protests, claiming that “her religion did not matter” and that “there was no such thing as being a Muslim in that space.”

Fatacky said she felt compelled to comply under intimidation, exposing her hair to the men present, thus violating her religious beliefs.

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