MUKWITA URGES GOVT TO HEED UN OVER ARBITRARY ARRESTS AND WARNS OF INTERNATIONAL ISOLATION
By Justina Matandiko
International Relations Expert Anthony Mukwita has warned that Zambia risks being known as a “pariah state” if it continues on a path that undermines its democratic credentials, which would damage the country’s standing in the international community.
This follows recent concern from un high commissioner for human rights volker türk over reports of arrests and detentions of opposition members before and after the august 13 polls, describing the arrests as arbitrary and called on government to uphold due process and the rights of those detained.
Ambassador Mukwita says the un intervention should prompt serious reflection within government, especially because Zambia has historically been regarded as one of the beacons of democracy, peace and stability in southern Africa.
He has told phoenix news that the continued reports of arbitrary arrests could begin to change how Zambia is perceived internationally, and warned that the country should not allow its democratic reputation to be eroded.
Ambassador Mukwita stated that Zambia does not want to be associated with countries whose international image has been defined by political instability, conflict and democratic setbacks.
He has therefore urged government to take the un concerns seriously and reaffirm Zambia’s democratic credentials, saying the country must protect the reputation it has built over the years rather than risk being known as a pariah state.
A pariah state is a country that is isolated and treated as an outcast by the rest of the world because its actions violate international laws or human rights.
PHOENIX NEWS
Anthony Mukwita should exercise caution before accusing the government regarding arbitrary arrests; however, he must also take into account the allegations surrounding the investigations into militia activities. The disclosures concerning the presence of militia groupings associated with the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity are significant.
It is essential that the legal process unfolds appropriately. Those implicated in these allegations ought to be presented to the relevant law enforcement and investigative authorities of the government.