Amnesty International has urged the Zambian government to conduct a thorough investigation into the shooting death of Mutotwe Kafwaya, a former member of parliament and ex-Minister of Transport. Kafwaya was fatally shot during a police raid in Kabulonga, Lusaka, on August 14, shortly after the presidential election.

Kafwaya, who was approaching his 50th birthday on August 28, was among several politicians gathered at a location associated with opposition candidate Brian Mundubile when security forces intervened. Reports indicate that during the raid, Kafwaya was shot, and several members of the National Restoration Party (NRPUP), including Bishop Trevor Mwamba, George Chisanga, and Patrick Mwansa, were arrested.

Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International's Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, highlighted that Kafwaya's death is part of a troubling trend of arbitrary arrests and detentions of opposition figures during the electoral period. The organization is calling for an independent and transparent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the shooting, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice for those responsible.

Chagutah stated, "The authorities must ensure that the rights to life, liberty, and a fair hearing are upheld, as mandated by Zambia’s Constitution and international human rights law." He further urged the government to grant detainees access to legal representation, family visits, and necessary medical care, while also calling for an end to the arbitrary arrests of opposition members.

In a related development, the Commonwealth has expressed concern over the situation in Zambia following the elections. Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey condemned the raid that led to Kafwaya's death and called for a transparent investigation. The Commonwealth's statement emphasized the importance of respecting the rights of individuals and the rule of law, urging the Zambian authorities to cease indiscriminate arrests and ensure due process for all detainees.

Botchwey encouraged all parties involved to engage in constructive dialogue to ease tensions and promote peace and stability in the nation. The calls for accountability from both Amnesty International and the Commonwealth reflect a growing international concern regarding the treatment of opposition figures in Zambia and the need for a fair electoral process.