Ex-Zambian minister killed in security raid on opposition

In a security operation in Lusaka, the capital of Zambia, former minister Mutotwe Kafwaya was fatally wounded and later died during an exchange of fire, according to police spokesman. The operation targeted a house linked to opposition leader Brian Mundubile, who announced his rejection of allegations that his party, the NRPUP, was involved in insurgency and militia activity.

Eleven individuals were arrested in the raid. President Hakainde Hichilema secured a second five-year term, receiving 60% of the vote. Mundubile, trailing with 38%, intends to challenge the results in court, claiming the tallying process was tampered with. Kafwaya, a lawmaker since 2016, served in various ministries before joining the opposition as an MP after Edgar Lungu's defeat in the 2021 presidential election.

Regional and international observers noted the election as generally peaceful but expressed concerns about late electoral reforms, media freedom, and access to media during the campaign. The EU election observation mission indicated issues with the tabulation process and weak verification between digital entries and paper records, while calling for maximum transparency.

The Human Rights Commission urged accountability for missing individuals and investigated allegations of unlawful detentions or disappearances.