stakeholders urge cso objectivity on jay banda
democracy advocate Fabian Mutale and UPND youth chair Gilbert Liswaniso question civil society groups' focus.
Stakeholders have urged Zambian civil society organisations (CSOs) to be objective when commenting on national matters, particularly the apprehension of former Petauke Central MP Emmanuel Jay Banda. They questioned the approach of some CSOs in discussing Mr Banda’s transfer from Mozambique to Zambia, arguing that human rights advocacy must respect the rule of law and the rights of all affected individuals.
Democracy advocate Fabian Mutale stated on Crown TV that some CSOs are hypocritical for questioning Mr Banda’s apprehension without considering his alleged escape from lawful custody. He said stakeholders should ensure Mr Banda answers to allegations through the judicial process, stating that while his life and right to appear before courts must be protected, the law should also apply to alleged offences. Mr Mutale added that Mr Banda should face charges for escaping lawful custody.
United Party for National Development (UPND) national youth chairperson Gilbert Liswaniso also called on CSOs to remain truthful and objective, with positions informed by facts. He questioned why some organisations demand government explanations on Mr Banda’s apprehension but not on his alleged escape from custody, urging consistent standards of accountability regardless of the individual.
Why it mattersZambian citizens, represented by stakeholders and political party officials, are concerned about the objectivity of civil society organisations' commentary on the apprehension and legal proceedings of former MP Emmanuel Jay Banda.