BRIEFING | Khama Escalates Attacks on Hichilema, Alleges Political Persecution and Torture
Former Botswana President Ian Khama has renewed his attacks on President Hakainde Hichilema, accusing the Zambian leader of manipulating elections, persecuting opposition politicians and presiding over alleged human rights violations.
Speaking to Swaziland News in an interview published Sunday, Khama maintained his description of Hichilema as a dictator, days after questioning Botswana’s decision to send a government representative to the Zambian President’s inauguration.
“In order to satisfy his craving for power, he interfered with elections, arrested and detained opponents and members of the clergy, fabricated charges against them,” Khama said.
The former Botswana leader also accused Hichilema’s administration of kidnapping and torturing political activists, allegations which the Zambian government has not publicly addressed in response to the latest interview.
Khama’s intervention comes amid continuing political and legal disputes following Zambia’s August 13 general elections, including the arrests and detention of several opposition figures.
Among those recently detained was Lima Constituency MP Kelvin Kaunda of the opposition NRPUP, who was arrested on October 15 over an alleged assault during election campaigns. He was subsequently granted bail and has described his detention as politically motivated.
Khama’s political relationships in Zambia have also entered the controversy. Figures associated with the ruling UPND have alleged that his hostility towards Hichilema is connected to opposition political networks and commercial interests affected by changes in Zambia’s political leadership.
These claims have not established a financial motive for his criticism.
The latest accusations follow criticism from former Zambian Vice-President Enock Kavindele, who urged Khama to respect Zambia’s sovereignty and support serious allegations against its elected leadership with credible evidence
UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe has similarly rejected Khama’s characterisation of Hichilema, pointing to Zambia’s constitutional institutions, legislative reforms and international standing.
The dispute has now moved beyond criticism of diplomatic relations to allegations concerning Zambia’s electoral credibility, criminal justice system and treatment of political opponents, with Khama’s claims drawing sharp responses from figures associated with the governing party.
The People’s Brief | Hora Hanene
1 November 2026