Zambia: Widespread Repression in Post-Election Crackdown
[HRW] Opposition and Critics Forcibly Disappeared, Arbitrary Detained, Beaten
In the days leading up to the August 2026 general elections in Zambia, the Zambian government, through its police and military forces, engaged in widespread repression of opposition members, critics, lawyers, journalists, and government opponents. The Human Rights Watch (HRW) has documented several instances of forced disappearances, arbitrary detentions, beatings, and threats against these individuals.
The authorities have failed to provide a credible explanation or investigate the killing of an opposition leader, Mutotwe Kafwaya, which occurred under contested circumstances. The government's crackdown on post-election activities has continued, with the suspension of judicial services and legal challenges, further exacerbating the ongoing repression.
HRW has documented 14 cases of enforced disappearances, with individuals being held by the military without revealing the situation or whereabouts. Additionally, 61 cases allege violent abuse during arrest and detention, with 18 being charged with treason, often considered politically motivated. The government has not disclosed the total number of arrests or the charges against them, raising concerns over the actual number of detainees.
Furthermore, the government has canceled the passports of six government critics for security reasons, and security forces raided the home of opposition leader Brian Mundubile, resulting in the alleged killing of Mutotwe Kafwaya. The conflicting statements from government officials about the raid and related events call for an independent investigation to establish the truth.
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