By MUBITA KATETE
Socialist Party president Fred M’membe has urged the THE UPND Government should not dismiss former Botswana President Ian Khama’s characterization of President Hakainde Hichilema as Africa’s newest dictator because the remarks are a reflection of concerns about Zambia’s democratic governance,” Dr Fred M’membe has said.
Dr M’membe says General Khama’s comments should trigger reflection on the state of democracy, constitutionalism and political freedoms in Zambia rather than attract defensive responses from the Government.
“Former Botswana President Gen Ian Seretse Khama’s assessment of the state of Zambia’s democracy is not an isolated criticism but reflects a sustained regression in the country’s democratic institutions. The underlying substance of his observation cannot be casually dismissed,” Dr M’membe said.
Dr M’membe accused the UPND administration of executive overreach, alleging that the criminal justice system was being used against political opponents and critics.
He also raised concerns over the detention of opposition figures on serious charges, including treason and sedition, arguing that prolonged detention without timely prosecution undermined the principles of due process.
“These actions do not reflect a robust, self-confident democracy; rather, they signal a calculated effort to insulate power by neutralising legitimate political competition,” Dr M’membe said.
He further questioned the independence and operations of key institutions, particularly the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), following what he described as controversial administrative decisions during the August electoral process.
Dr M’membe also cited concerns raised by the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) over security measures that involved the physical sealing and barricading of court premises after the elections.
He said security arrangements should not interfere with judicial independence or citizens’ access to justice.
“The rule of law requires unhindered access to justice. Dismissing external criticism through public relations responses and personal attacks would not address the governance concerns raised against the administration,” he said.
He said Zambia’s international standing depended on how the country upheld constitutional guarantees, political freedoms and democratic principles.
Dr M’membe urged President Hichilema’s administration to treat General Khama’s remarks as an opportunity for introspection and to address concerns surrounding democratic governance.
“The Socialist Party remains unshakeably committed to constitutionalism, the rule of law, and the preservation of our republic’s democratic heritage,” he said.
He called on the Government to reverse what he described as an authoritarian trajectory and safeguard the country’s democratic institutions.
ENDS
Nation Reporter
