The European Parliament has adopted a resolution expressing concern over the human rights situation in Zambia following the August 2026 elections, with particular focus on the death of opposition figure and former minister Mutotwe Kafwaya.
The resolution, adopted on September 17, calls for an independent and impartial investigation into Kafwaya’s death and allegations of excessive use of force, arbitrary arrests and intimidation.
The Parliament also urged Zambian authorities to uphold freedom of expression, media freedom and the right to peaceful assembly.
The European Parliament said security operations should be proportionate and conducted within the rule of law. It further called for detainees to be informed of the reasons for their arrest, given access to legal representation and afforded fair trials.
The resolution was adopted by 562 votes in favour, one against and 33 abstentions, according to the European Parliament.
The Parliament also highlighted the EU’s partnership with Zambia, including cooperation under the Global Gateway strategy and agreements concerning critical raw materials.
It called on EU institutions and member states to raise human rights concerns with Zambia and monitor related judicial proceedings.
The resolution comes amid competing accounts surrounding Kafwaya’s death. Zambian law-enforcement authorities have maintained that there was an exchange of fire during the operation in which he was fatally shot, while opposition figures have disputed aspects of the official account and called for further investigation.
The European Parliament’s action places Zambia’s post-election human rights debate under increased international scrutiny, while the independent investigation it has called for could provide an opportunity for the circumstances surrounding Kafwaya’s death and other allegations to be examined through evidence and due process.