The Zambia Human Rights Commission has expressed concern that the country’s democratic record is quickly being damaged by the ruling Patriotic Front.
Director Enock Mulembe told journalists in Lusaka that he was “shocked” by how the PF government has blocked the opposition from holding rallies without any explanation.
Speaking in an interview, Mulembe said, ”Why the PF is afraid to allow other political leaders to meet with their supporters and discuss things that are affecting them in society? They have been infringing the human right of the Zambian citizens since being elected into office.”
He continued. “It is difficult to understand why the PF is doing this. Why are they denying the opposition permits to hold rallies? We need to ensure that we preserve the democratic freedom we fought for many years ago.”
Mulembe said although human rights were not absolute, there has to be an explanation whenever such rights were being withheld.
“We recognize that human rights are not absolute, they can be subject to conditions but there has to be a reason and that reason has to be given. If there is no explanation, then the ruling party is abrogating the country’s constitution which is supposed to protect people,” Mulembe said.