Zambia: Special Rapporteur urges immediate end to post-election crackdown and release of political detainees

GENEVA – The Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of assembly and of association, Gina Romero, today, expressed grave concern over the deteriorating democratic and human rights environment in Zambia and urgently called on the Government to uphold democratic integrity, safeguard civic space, and immediately cease the criminalisation of political dissent.

Following the post-election period, reports indicate alarming systemic violations that follow severe allegations of electoral flaws. These violations include widespread intimidation, the alleged arrest of hundreds of opposition supporters, many held beyond legally mandated timeframes without formal charges. Concocted charges of treason—a capital offense—against senior opposition alliance leadership set a dangerous precedent. Alongside documented instances of voter intimidation, assaults, and abductions, the escalation of violence and loss of life -including of a former cabinet minister and polling agent – requires immediate international scrutiny.

Concerns regarding attacks on political opponents were already highlighted in an official communication by the expert, and the Special Rapporteur was again in touch with the government regarding pre-election warning signs in the months ahead of these general elections. Also, in 2025 the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right of freedom of opinion and expression included similar concerns in the key findings of her report.

“This crisis reflects a broader pattern of shrinking civic space. The pattern of restrictions includes arbitrary arrests of opposition leaders, parliamentarians, and civil society actors on charges that were often disproportionate and legally ambiguous,” Romero said.

The ongoing crackdown was further illustrated by the government's de facto cancellation of RightsCon—the world's premier gathering on technology and human rights—days before its scheduled start in Lusaka due to administrative withdrawal and alleged foreign political pressure. Arbitrary detentions, disproportionate charges (including sedition and espionage), and restrictions on peaceful assembly directly violate international human rights standards under the ICCPR.

“A healthy democracy requires that all voices—including opposition members, religious leaders, civil society actors, and journalists—speak freely without fear,” she said. “Authorities must release all political detainees, respect fundamental freedoms, and restore democratic accountability.”

The expert remains in contact with Zambian authorities on these matters.