XAVIER CHUNGU’S CONTINUED DETENTION IS DAMAGING ZAMBIA’S DEMOCRATIC REPUTATION – MMD
The Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD) has noted with serious concern the decision by Amnesty International to launch a worldwide campaign demanding the immediate release of opposition leader and former presidential candidate, Mr. Xavier Chungu.
The fact that one of the world’s most respected human rights organisations has found it necessary to mobilise the international community over the continued detention of a Zambian opposition leader should concern every citizen and every institution entrusted with protecting our democracy. Zambia has always prided itself as a beacon of democracy, constitutionalism and respect for human rights. We should not allow that hard-earned reputation to be diminished.
The MMD believes that no democracy is strengthened by the prolonged detention of political opponents where legitimate questions continue to be raised about due process and the protection of constitutional rights. Every Zambian, regardless of their political affiliation, deserves equal protection under the law, the presumption of innocence, and access to justice that is fair, impartial and free from any perception of political influence.
We have taken note of Amnesty International’s concerns regarding the continued incarceration of Mr. Xavier Chungu, the denial of bail and the broader implications this case has for freedom of expression and political participation in Zambia. Whether one agrees with Mr. Chungu’s views or not is beside the point. In a democratic society, the protection of constitutional rights must never depend on political affiliation.
We therefore respectfully call upon the Government to demonstrate its commitment to democratic governance by allowing the law to take its course in a manner that is transparent, fair and consistent with Zambia’s constitutional and international obligations. Where the law permits, every effort should be made to ensure that Mr. Chungu enjoys his right to liberty pending the determination of his case.
At the same time, we wish to reaffirm our confidence in the independence of Zambia’s Judiciary. We believe the courts remain the proper forum for determining criminal matters, and we urge that this case be handled expeditiously, impartially and strictly according to the law. Justice delayed not only affects the accused; it also weakens public confidence in our institutions.
The MMD further reminds the Government that democracy flourishes where political competition is met with dialogue rather than detention. Zambia has come too far in its democratic journey to create an environment where opposition voices attract greater international attention because of concerns over human rights than because of the strength of our democratic institutions.
We therefore join all peace-loving Zambians in calling for a just, fair and humane resolution of the Xavier Chungu matter. The continued detention of an opposition leader has become a matter of national and international concern. It is in the best interest of our democracy, our justice system and our country’s international standing that this matter be resolved without unnecessary delay.
The world is watching. More importantly, the Zambian people are watching.
Issued by:
Hon. Gaston Sichilima
Acting President
Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD)