HRW urges Zambia to end crackdown after disputed election

Human Rights Watch has urged Zambia’s authorities to stop an escalating crackdown on political opponents following President Hakainde Hichilema’s victory in disputed elections in August. In a report released on Sunday, the rights organisation accused the government of suppressing criticism through arrests and other abuses targeting opposition members, journalists and lawyers.

The report described violations both before and after the August 2026 general elections. According to HRW, police and military personnel forcibly disappeared people, detained them arbitrarily, carried out beatings and issued threats. Those targeted included opposition supporters and members, lawyers, journalists and other government critics. Several people have been arrested, while some have disappeared in recent months, the organisation said.

HRW said the intimidation and harassment surrounding the election had discouraged civic and political organisations from speaking out, with a particular impact on dissenting voices. Its deputy Africa director, Ashwanee Budoo-Scholtz, urged the government to end what she described as a dangerous pattern of repression and to hold security forces accountable for abuses.

Budoo-Scholtz called for an immediate halt to the post-election crackdown and the release of everyone held arbitrarily. She also said authorities should ensure that people in detention can consult lawyers and receive medical treatment. The demands formed part of the organisation’s appeal for the government to address the treatment of detainees and the conduct of security personnel.

Hichilema took the oath of office for a second presidential term after winning the August vote, which critics have said was affected by vote rigging. His inauguration took place at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka while his principal opponent, Brian Mundubile, remained in custody. Mundubile was accused of treason after asserting that the opposition had won the election.

Police searched Mundubile’s home in a raid the day after the August 13 elections. During that operation, former cabinet member Mutotwe Kafwaya was shot and killed. HRW urged Zambian authorities to establish an independent investigation into the incident, saying the inquiry should be impartial and thorough.

Roughly a dozen additional opposition figures have been arrested after challenging the election outcome. Two weeks after the vote, authorities also abruptly shut the country’s courts. Police described that decision as an intelligence-based preventive step but did not give further details. HRW said the shutdown prevents opposition parties from bringing legal challenges to the election results.