Socialist Party (SP) president, Dr Fred M’membe, has condemned the prolonged detention of opposition figures and government critics, warning that the practice threatens Zambia’s constitutional democracy and respect for human rights.
M’membe said Zambia could not genuinely claim to be peaceful when constitutionalism, due process and the rule of law were being undermined following the August 13, 2026 general elections.
He said this in a statement issued in Lusaka on Sunday on the detention of opposition figures beyond the legally permissible period.
M’membe said the arrests and detention of opposition figures beyond the legally permissible 48-hour period without formal charges or appearance before a court raised serious concerns about citizens’ fundamental rights.
“As the Socialist Party, we stand firmly on the principle that a nation can not genuinely claim to be at peace when the very foundations of constitutionalism, due process, and the rule of law are systematically undermined,” M’membe stated.
He explained that the 48-hour rule was an important constitutional safeguard against arbitrary exercise of state power and a guarantee of personal liberty and fair hearing.
“The 48-hour rule is not a mere procedural formality,” he emphasised, warning that disregarding statutory limits could weaken public confidence in law enforcement agencies.
M’membe said prolonged detention without judicial oversight could create fear and instability instead of promoting peace and democratic governance.
“We call upon the government and state law enforcement agencies to immediately halt the practice of arbitrary and prolonged detentions,” he stated.
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He added that an independent judiciary and separation of powers were essential in ensuring accountability and preventing abuse of executive authority.
“The exercise of power must be a constant practice of self limitation and modesty,” he stressed, reaffirming the Socialist Party’s commitment to justice and human dignity.
M’membe urged authorities to respect constitutional timelines and ensure that all law enforcement actions complied with the rule of law.
He said adherence to due process was critical to safeguarding personal liberty and promoting democratic governance.
The Socialist Party leader said respect for human rights and the rule of law remains fundamental to national peace and stability.
He reiterated the Party’s call for an end to arbitrary detentions and for upholding constitutional guarantees.
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