LUZENDI QUESTIONS CONTINUED DETENTION OF KELVIN KAUNDA
Activist Thompson Luzendi has questioned the continued detention of newly elected Lima Constituency Member of Parliament Kelvin Kaunda, despite other lawmakers presenting their working sureties last Thursday and Friday.
Mr Luzendi said the circumstances surrounding Mr Kaunda’s detention had raised concerns about the rule of law and the administration of justice in Zambia.
He argued that the Government’s commitment to upholding the law should be reflected in the treatment of all citizens, including political opponents.
“Government cannot continually speak about the rule of law while allowing circumstances that raise legitimate concerns about selective justice,” Mr Luzendi stated.
He warned against the alleged use of the criminal justice system to intimidate or silence individuals holding opposing political views.
Mr Luzendi urged authorities to ensure that any allegations against Mr Kaunda were handled through transparent and lawful procedures, adding that suspects should be brought before the courts without unnecessary delays.
“Detention must not become a means of punishment before trial,” he emphasized.
He further stressed that political affiliation should not influence the application of the law, noting that constitutional rights and equal protection should be guaranteed to every citizen.
“The rule of law is not measured by how firmly the state deals with its critics,” Mr Luzendi said.
He called on authorities to either take Mr Kaunda to court or grant him police bond, insisting that justice should serve the public interest rather than political considerations.
“Zambia belongs to all of us, not just those in power.”