Human Rights Watch has accused Zambian security forces of carrying out a crackdown on opposition members, supporters, lawyers, journalists and government critics in the period surrounding the country’s August 2026 general election.
In a report published on November 1, the international rights organisation said police and military personnel were involved in alleged enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, beatings and threats against people perceived to be critical of the government.
Report documents disappearances and alleged abuse
Human Rights Watch said it documented 14 cases of apparent enforced disappearance involving opposition members and supporters. It also recorded 61 cases in which detainees, their lawyers or relatives alleged that individuals were beaten or otherwise physically abused during arrest or detention.
The organisation further identified 71 cases involving opposition members, supporters and government critics who were allegedly arrested on potentially politically motivated charges or held for extended periods without charge.
Among those still in detention is opposition leader Brian Mundubile, who contested the August election against President Hakainde Hichilema.
Human Rights Watch said some detainees had not been formally charged, while other charges appeared to be politically motivated. It also criticised authorities for not disclosing the total number of people arrested during the crackdown.
The findings were published in “Human Rights Watch’s report“, while “Associated Press”
Government position and calls for accountability
The report follows Hakainde Hichilema’s re-election in the August 13 presidential election, which observers said was affected by irregularities, including restrictions on fundamental freedoms.
Human Rights Watch called on the government to end arbitrary detention, ensure detainees have access to lawyers and medical care, release those held without lawful grounds and investigate alleged abuses by security personnel.
However, Zambia’s government has disputed criticism of its handling of political detainees. In a response cited by Human Rights Watch, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said opposition membership does not place anyone above the law and maintained that the country’s courts remain available to examine such cases.
The organisation said the alleged abuses have created an atmosphere of intimidation that could restrict political participation and freedom of expression.
