By Chinoyi Chipulu
Opposition Golden Party has condemned the continued detention Socialist Party Leader Fred M’membe and NDC leader Saboi Imboela.
Dr. M`Membe was arrested last week and charged with the offence of seditious practices, following an article posted on his Facebook page, alleging corruption and other abuses involving Zambian authorities and Democratic Republic of Congo President Felix Tshisekedi.
While Imboela was arrested and was currently detained at Kabwata Police Station following an arrest warrant issued by the court for missing a hearing.
Golden Party Copperbelt Provincial chairman Martin Simwaba said this showed that the government was trying hard to suppress the opposition.
Simwaba demanded the immediate release of the two leaders as Zambia was a democratic country.
“The arrest of SP leader M’membe and NDC leader Imboela by the police raises further significant concerns about the professionalism and impartiality of law enforcement in our country. This action is influenced by external pressures from the executive branch, which is working hard to suppress opposition voices,” he said.
Simwaba said such interference undermined the integrity of police operations and raised questions about their ability to act impartially.
“It is crucial for the police to maintain professionalism and adhere strictly to their mandate, regardless of political pressures. The role of law enforcement is to uphold the law and protect the rights of all citizens, including those with opposing political views,” he said.
He said politicians may have their own agendas, but it was the duty of the police to ensure that their actions remained within legal and ethical boundaries.
“In this challenging environment, it is essential for the police to resist undue influence and carry out their responsibilities with fairness and transparency. Upholding these standards is vital for preserving democratic values and ensuring that justice is served equitably, in this vain,” said Simwaba.
