By Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba
Recent reports and expert analyses highlight a troubling trend under President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration, suggesting a disturbing shift from democratic values towards autocratic rule. As Zambia’s political landscape evolves, questions are being raised about the erosion of civil liberties and the entrenchment of despotic practices.
Erosion of Democratic Values
According to multiple credible sources, including the United States 2022/23 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, President Hichilema’s tenure has been marked by several significant human rights issues:
- Unlawful or Arbitrary Killings: Reports indicate instances of extrajudicial killings.
- Torture and Degrading Treatment: There have been allegations of torture and harsh prison conditions.
- Restrictions on Freedom of Expression: Increased censorship and violence against journalists have been reported.
- Interference with Assembly and Association Rights: There have been substantial limitations on these freedoms.
- Government Corruption: Serious corruption has been highlighted as a persistent issue.
These findings have been corroborated by recent assessments from Human Rights Watch and other organizations, indicating a swift and troubling decline in Zambia’s democratic institutions and human rights conditions.
Contradictions in Leadership Promises
President Hichilema, who ascended to power on promises to restore the Rule of Law, combat corruption, and enhance democratic freedoms, is now facing criticism for allegedly betraying these commitments. The rapid transformation from a promising leader to one accused of despotic tendencies raises concerns about his administration’s true intentions and governance approach.
UN Experts Weigh In
A recent report by the United Nations experts, led by Gina Romero, Special Rapporteur on the Rights to Freedom of Peaceful Assembly and of Association, further underscores the decline in Zambia’s human rights record:
- Instrumentalization of Law: There are allegations that vague legal provisions, such as “seditious intention,” are being used to suppress free expression.
- Justice System Shortcomings: The report highlights issues like arrests without thorough investigations and delays in judicial proceedings.
- Chilling Effect on Freedoms: The government’s actions have reportedly created a chilling effect on freedom of expression, assembly, and association.
- Need for Legal Reforms: The UN experts have called for legislative reforms to align national laws with international human rights standards.
Concerns Over Corruption and Policy Decisions
Concerns are also mounting about President Hichilema’s policy decisions, particularly in sectors like mining and energy. Critics argue that recent moves in these areas reflect a concerning focus on personal wealth accumulation rather than public good.
The Call for Action
Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba expresses a growing frustration with the perceived silence of Zambia’s traditional guardians of democracy, such as human rights organizations, legal bodies, and the church. He warns that if these voices remain muted in the face of rising despotism, new voices will inevitably emerge to challenge the status quo and seek to restore Zambia’s democratic integrity.
