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The Patriotic Front (PF) opposition leadership has raised alarm over what they describe as the systematic abuse and capture of state institutions under the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) and President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration.
Acting President of the PF, Hon. Given Lubinda, Secretary General Raphael Nakachinda, MCC Dr. Canisius Banda, and MCC Isaiah Bwanga visited the Human Rights Commission offices, where they were hosted by Director General Ms. Mbololwa and her team of directors.
The PF delegation submitted a formal complaint alleging that the Executive (particularly the Police), the Judiciary, and the Legislature have all been weaponized to target political opponents, particularly those from ethnic groups perceived to be disliked by the current administration.
Citing examples, the delegation pointed to the arrests and prosecutions of Francis Kapwepwe, Hon. Munir Zulu, Hon. JJ Banda, Hon. Bowman Lusambo, Hon. Maureen Mabonga, Hon. Chishimba Kambwili, and Hon. Davies Chama, among others. They argued that while these figures face heavy-handed treatment, other political leaders—Council Chairpersons, Members of Parliament, and Ministers—who have issued similar or worse sentiments in public remain untouched.
The PF further submitted concerns regarding the denial of basic rights to incarcerated members, stating that even the constitutional right to be visited by family and loved ones is being denied.
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