GOV’T REJECTS CSOs CLAIMS OF BREAK-DOWN OF RULE OF LAW
GOV’T REJECTS CSOs CLAIMS OF BREAK-DOWN OF RULE OF LAW
Government has rejected claims by a group of civil society organisations that Zambia is experiencing a breakdown in the rule of law, describing the allegations as sweeping and unsupported by sufficient evidence.
In a response issued by the Attorney-General, Government defended the recent cancellation of passports, saying the law allows authorities to cancel travel documents under certain circumstances and provides affected individuals with avenues to appeal.
On the treason and sedition cases involving opposition figures, the Attorney-General declined to discuss the merits, saying several related matters are before the courts.
Government also rejected claims that Mafinga South MP Faith Munthali was abducted or denied legal representation, maintaining that she was arrested by law-enforcement agencies and that no evidence had been provided to support allegations that she was denied access to lawyers.
The Attorney-General further rejected allegations that institutions including the Judiciary, Electoral Commission, Defence Force and law-enforcement agencies lack independence.
Despite the disagreement, Government said it remains open to dialogue with political parties, civil society and other stakeholders, but stressed that dialogue cannot interfere with court proceedings or legitimate criminal investigations.
The response follows a statement by five civil society organisations raising concerns about passport cancellations, prolonged detentions and the treatment of political figures following the August elections.
ZWD