PASTOR’S IMPRISONMENT SPARKS OUTCRY OVER FREEDOM OF SPEECH IN ZAMBIA

PASTOR’S IMPRISONMENT SPARKS OUTCRY OVER FREEDOM OF SPEECH IN ZAMBIA

…as Dr M’membe questions government’s intolerance toward criticism

Kitwe… Wednesday February 5, 2025

The recent arrest and imprisonment of Pastor Duncan Daniel Simuchimba has sparked widespread concern over what critics are calling an erosion of freedom of speech under Zambia’s current administration. 

According to a statement issued by Socialist Party (SP) President Dr. Fred M’membe, Pastor Simuchimba was detained and humiliated for opposing the demolition of market stalls at Kitwe’s Chisokone Market.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17k77TT8EA/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Dr. M’membe questioned the government’s intolerance toward criticism, asking what offense the Pastor had committed to warrant such treatment. 

“This act represents a disturbing attack on the constitutionally guaranteed right to freedom of speech and expression, a cornerstone of our democracy,” Dr. M’membe said, adding that the incident is a direct contradiction to the promises made by President Hakainde Hichilema. 

Dr. M’membe reminded the public that Mr. Hichilema campaigned on a platform of restoring democratic principles, good governance, and respect for fundamental freedoms.

He warned that actions like the imprisonment of Pastor Simuchimba risk dragging the nation back into authoritarianism. 

Criticizing the government’s apparent inability to tolerate dissent, Dr. M’membe emphasized that leadership requires humility, dialogue, and an acceptance of diverse opinions.

“We can’t all think the same or speak the same language in terms of governance and leadership,” he said, urging the government to review the Pastor’s case and prevent similar occurrences in the future. 

The Socialist Party leader also cautioned the administration against intimidating citizens who express opposing views, arguing that such actions undermine Zambia’s democracy.

He described the current state of governance as the “lowest level” of tolerance and inclusivity in the country’s history. 

Dr. M’membe concluded by asserting that the Zambian people would not stand idly by while their freedoms are eroded.

He called on the government to embrace criticism and govern with humility, warning that anything less would betray the trust placed in the administration by the electorate.