Former Zambian minister confirmed dead after post-election security operation
Tensions following Zambia’s presidential election have deepened after authorities confirmed that former cabinet minister Mutotwe Kafwaya was killed during a security operation targeting a property linked to opposition leader Brian Mundubile.
The government says Kafwaya died when security personnel exchanged gunfire with individuals at the residence during a raid in Lusaka. His death was only officially acknowledged days after opposition figures raised concerns about his whereabouts.
The operation, carried out shortly after President Hakainde Hichilema was declared winner of the election, has become a focal point of political controversy. Security agencies claim the raid uncovered activities linked to alleged insurgency and militia operations, accusations that have been strongly denied by Mundubile and his party.
Mundubile, who finished second in the presidential race, has rejected claims that opposition members were involved in armed activities, describing the allegations as an attempt to justify a crackdown on political opponents. He has also challenged the election outcome and intends to contest the results through the courts.
Police say several people were arrested during the operation and that officers came under attack before returning fire. According to investigators, a firearm was recovered at the scene. Family members later identified the deceased as Kafwaya, a long-serving politician who previously held ministerial portfolios under former President Edgar Lungu’s administration.
The confirmation of his death comes as scrutiny intensifies over events surrounding the election. International observers have questioned aspects of the vote-counting process and expressed concern about restrictions faced by opposition parties during the campaign period.
A European Union observation mission reported procedural irregularities during the tabulation of results and called for greater transparency from electoral authorities. The mission also highlighted concerns over the security environment and the deployment of military personnel during the post-election period.
Human rights groups have meanwhile urged authorities to account for individuals detained during election-related operations. Concerns have been raised over reports of missing persons and prolonged detentions, prompting calls for independent investigations.
Kafwaya’s death is likely to further inflame political tensions in Zambia, where the disputed election and subsequent security actions have already sparked a fierce debate over democracy, accountability and the treatment of opposition figures.
Source: BBC
About The Author
