Stakeholders Warn UN Report Could Jeopardize Zambia’s Funding.
Written by Mafken FM Newsroom on 2 September 2024
National Democratic Congress (NDC) leader Saboi Imboela has raised concerns that Zambia’s relationship with Western countries could be jeopardized by a recent United Nations Human Rights Council report.
Ms Imboela warned that the findings might affect Zambia’s debt restructuring deal and ongoing foreign aid.
The UN experts’ report highlights alleged arbitrary arrests and detentions of opposition leaders, members of parliament, human rights defenders, and activists. It also points out restrictions on gatherings, peaceful protests, and rallies.
In an interview on Mafken TV’s Copper Breakfast Show Saturday Edition, Ms Imboela, who is also the media chairperson for the United Kwacha Alliance (UKA), suggested that Zambia’s debt restructuring plan might face complications due to these human rights issues.
She expressed concern that continued funding from Western nations could be at risk, potentially affecting President Hakainde Hichilema’s favorable relations with these countries.
She also criticized Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa’s response to the UN report, labelling it inadequate.
Kantanshi MP Anthony Mumba also weighed in, emphasizing that Zambia’s reputation as a destination for investment could be at stake.
Dr Mumba stressed that the UN is not politically motivated and urged government to thoroughly review the report.
He called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to carefully analyse the report and provide guidance to President Hichilema.
By Comfort Nthala
