MABUMBA ROYAL ESTABLISHMENT CALLS FOR AN IMMEDIATE END
TO ABDUCTIONS, ENFORCED DISAPPERANCES AND FOR THE RELEASE
FROM PROLONGED DETENTION OF ARRESTED ARTISTS
12 AUGUST = 2026 – The Mabumba Royal Establishment of the Ushi people in
Mansa District, Luapula Province, is saddened by the reported abduction, enforced
disappearances, and extra judicial detention of several citizens who were exercising their
constitutional right to associate with political parties of their choice and to campaign for
themselves or for a candidate they support.
We have seen footage of unarmed women being picked up like dangerous criminals.
Additionally, in the recent past, prominent musician, Moses Ng’andwe (popularly known
as Chester) alongside fellow artists, comedian Winston Ngosa (IDC) and Felix Ndangeni
Inshila, have been detained by police in the Mongu and Kalabo distrcits of Western
Province.
They were charged with conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace during
election campaign activities but are yet to be released over a week later.
These
developments are most unfortunate and have instilled widespread fear and alarm across our
country. We call for the immediate stop to these abductions and for the release of all those
who have been arrested and abducted.
As we vote, in tomorrow’s presidential and other elections, we urge the Government of the
Republic of Zambia and all law enforcement officials to safeguard the rights of citizens
and avoid infringing upon the rights of citizens. We also urge the citizens to vote peacefully
and to avoid violence.
Zambia has been a haven of peace and all of us must preserve the
peace of our country.
We wish all the citizens of Zambia all the best as they vote and the
best of luck to each candidate that is presenting themselves for election.
Issued by the Mabumba Royal Establishment