Speaking to Channel Africa on Friday, Citizens First Deputy Legal Chairperson Wisdom Mulizwa claimed the situation extends beyond the opposition and reflects broader concerns about the state of democracy and public confidence in the country.
Mulizwa alleged that the election was not free and fair and said many citizens were afraid to express their views. “We are dealing with an election that wasn’t free and fair, and people are afraid of expressing themselves because we are plagued with fear,” Mulizwa said.
Mulizwa said the election period saw unprecedented developments, including the suspension of polling in some areas and allegations surrounding the death of former minister Kafula, who was reportedly shot during security operations.
According to Mulizwa, conflicting statements from government officials have contributed to uncertainty around recent events.
Mulizwa also questioned the basis for the treason charges against Mundubile and Zulu, saying the opposition has not been provided with sufficient information about the allegations. “We are not aware of what exactly transpired and what led to these allegations,” Mulizwa said.
Authorities have accused the opposition figures of planning an armed insurgency, allegations both politicians have denied.
Mulizwa further claimed that court closures and technical problems prevented opposition candidates from challenging election results through legal channels. “As all this was happening, the courts were closed. Our colleagues could not petition the results,” Mulizwa said.
On the broader implications for Zambia’s democratic reputation, Mulizwa said the country has historically been known for peaceful transfers of power regardless of election outcomes.
Mulizwa pointed to leadership transitions from Kenneth Kaunda to Frederick Chiluba, from Chiluba to Levy Mwanawasa, and more recently from Edgar Lungu to President Hakainde Hichilema as examples of peaceful democratic change. “We’ve always transitioned peacefully,” Mulizwa said.
Mulizwa said the current situation risks undermining that legacy and has left many Zambians uncertain about the country’s political direction. “The President and the Vice President of the leading opposition are dealing with allegations of treason,” Mulizwa said.
“This whole thing has affected us as a nation.”
Looking ahead, Mulizwa said opposition parties would need to work together and advocate for citizens they believe feel unable to speak freely. “The way forward is that we need to unite as an opposition and speak not just for ourselves but for the people,” Mulizwa said.
Mulizwa described public sentiment as one of anxiety and frustration, claiming many people feel unable to openly comment on developments. “People are quite unhappy with the turn of events,” Mulizwa said.
“The people of Zambia only get to express themselves one time in five years, and that is through a ballot.”
–CHannelAfrica–
