Amnesty, Commonwealth call for Zambia probe into ex-minister Kafwaya killing
Amnesty International and the Commonwealth have called on Zambia to investigate the fatal shooting of former MP and ex-Minister of Transport Mutotwe Kafwaya, who was killed by security forces during a raid on the property of opposition candidate Brian Mundubile in Kabulonga, Lusaka, on August 14, just hours after the country's presidential election. Kafwaya, who would have turned 50 on August 28, was among opposition figures gathered at the site; security forces also arrested Bishop Trevor Mwamba, George Chisanga and Patrick Mwansa.
For Nigerians, the incident underscores the risks of post-electoral violence and the importance of protecting opposition voices, serving as a regional reminder that electoral disputes can quickly escalate and affect stability, trade and migration patterns across borders.
Amnesty's Regional Director Tigere Chagutah urged Zambian authorities to conduct a thorough, independent and transparent investigation, grant detainees access to lawyers, families and medical care, and stop the crackdown on peaceful dissent. Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey echoed the demand for a transparent probe, an end to indiscriminate arrests, due process and the release of those held for political reasons, urging all parties to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to preserve peace and democratic norms. Nigerians should monitor developments through credible sources, support calls for accountability, and consider these lessons when advocating for peaceful elections and the protection of dissent at home.