By halting the persecution of opposition figures, the DPP’s decision raises eyebrows over whether justice prevailed or political optics took center stage.
Lusaka, Jan. 21 – The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Gilbert Phiri, has disclosed a glaring absence of evidence to substantiate criminal allegations leveled against Patriotic Front (PF) members, including Hon. Mumbi Phiri, Mambilima MP Jean Chisenga, and Lusaka-based lawyer Celestine Mukandila. These accusations arose during the Kawambwa by-election campaigns.
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In letters dated January 10 and 13, 2025, addressed to the Zambia Police Director of Criminal Investigations, the DPP stated unequivocally that the accused did not commit any offense. Furthermore, witness statements have exonerated the trio, exposing the baseless nature of the charges.
The incident in question stems from Mumbi Phiri confronting the Minister of Green Economy, Mike Mposha, over alleged electoral fraud. Despite clear evidence of her innocence, the Zambia Police arrested and detained her on armed robbery charges after Mposha filed a complaint.
This move appears to align with a pattern of human rights violations perpetrated by the Hichilema administration, where state institutions are weaponized against perceived political opponents. The timing of this apparent shift in tone—coinciding with the visit of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) Special Rapporteur—raises questions about whether the government is seeking to temporarily soften its stance to deflect international scrutiny.
Observers note that this case adds to a growing list of incidents where the Hichilema administration has prioritized political retribution over justice, leveraging institutions like the Zambia Police to stifle dissent. The sudden change in narrative from the DPP, coupled with the continued persecution of opposition figures, underscores the urgent need for accountability and reform to restore the integrity of Zambia’s democratic processes.
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As Zambia hosts the UNHRC Special Rapporteur, the spotlight on the government’s human rights record has intensified. The question remains: will the administration seize this moment to address systemic abuses, or is this merely a calculated façade to pacify international concerns?
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