Zambia’s former President Edgar Lungu has made a startling revelation, claiming that he is “practically under house arrest”, and accusing the police of plotting to forcefully detain him without any justification. According to Lungu, the police have been mobilizing to arrest him at night from his residence in the capital city of Lusaka.
This development comes just a few days after the former leader sparked controversy by suggesting that there could be a change of government in the country before the 2026 general election. Lungu’s statement was seen by many as a veiled threat, and has been widely condemned by political opponents and civil society organizations.
In response to Lungu’s claims, Police Chief Graphael Musamba has stated that the former President will be summoned to explain his statement, which has been deemed to be inciting and inflammatory. Local media reports indicate that the police are taking Lungu’s statement seriously, and are investigating the matter further.
Lungu’s allegations of house arrest and police harassment have raised concerns about the state of democracy and human rights in Zambia. The former President has been a vocal critic of the current government, led by President Hakainde Hichilema, and has accused the authorities of persecuting him and his supporters.
The Patriotic Front, the political party founded by Lungu, has also weighed in on the matter, accusing the government of using state institutions to silence political opponents. The party has called for the immediate release of Lungu and other party members who are currently detained on various charges.
Human rights organizations have expressed concern over the developments, calling for restraint and calm from all parties involved. They have also urged the government to respect Lungu’s rights and freedoms, including his right to freedom of expression and association.
The situation in Zambia is being closely watched by regional and international observers, who are concerned about the potential for political instability and violence. The country has a history of peaceful transitions of power, and many are hoping that this tradition will continue.
In the meantime, Lungu remains under house arrest, and his fate hangs in the balance. The former President’s supporters are rallying around him, calling for his release and an end to what they see as political persecution.