Namibia's opposition leader petitions for the release of Zambian detainees

Namibia's opposition Party leader, McHenry Venaani of the DTA has appealed to the SADC-Troika Chairperson to intervene in the current wave of politically motivated arrests of opposition party leaders and members in Zambia.

The DTA leader in an open letter on Tuesday addressed to the Chairperson, John Magufuli of Tanzania, said the SADC-Troika needs to promptly intervene in the situation in Zambia to ensure the immediate release of Hakainde Hichilema and various other United Party for National Development leaders who have been arbitrarily arrested and detained.

"It is deplorable for those in the region who fear political competition and opposition to use state machinery to victimize, criminalize and oppress opposition parties, their leaders and their members," he said.

Venaani stated that SADC and Africa at large does not need reminding that actions like these will continue to fuel political instability and conflict throughout Africa.

Meanwhile, in recognition of the SADC-Troika mandate, to steer and provide member states with direction regarding matters that threaten peace, security and stability in the region, Veenani fomally petitioned the committee to intervene and put an end to the political arrests and detention in Zambia. Endit