Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has alleged being “practically under house arrest,” accusing the police of plotting to detain him forcibly “without cause.”
Lungu asserted that police were mobilizing to apprehend him at night from his residence in the capital, Lusaka. This follows recent remarks by the former leader suggesting a potential change in government before the 2026 general election.
According to local media reports, Police Chief Graphael Musamba indicated that Lungu would be summoned to clarify his statements.
Last October, Lungu announced his return to politics, prompting the government to revoke his retirement benefits. He had previously retired from politics after losing the presidency to Hakainde Hichilema in 2021.
The ex-president has accused the government of victimizing him and members of his Patriotic Front (PF) party to impede his political comeback.
His wife, former First Lady Esther Lungu, faces corruption allegations related to theft of motor vehicles and title deeds, which she denies.
While the government denies targeting Lungu, it urges him to give his successor time to fulfill campaign promises.
On Wednesday, Lungu claimed to have faced numerous unconstitutional actions by the state since leaving office, alleging police instructions to “ambush, abduct, embarrass, and forcibly detain” him.
It remains unclear if there is still a police presence at his home, with no immediate response to inquiries by the BBC.
However, the presidency maintains it respects human rights and avoids police interference.
During a church service last Sunday, Lungu warned of a potential regime change before the next election, likening it to “a baby born before nine months.”
Information Minister Cornelius Mweetwa described Lungu’s remarks as “hair-raising and startling,” stating the government was “carefully studying” them.
This follows a recent police warning to Lungu about potential arrest and prosecution for actions disrupting public order and safety.
Two weeks ago, Lungu attracted a crowd while walking the streets of Lusaka, purportedly to assess the high cost of doing business in the city.
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In February, he called for an early election, citing his successor’s alleged economic mismanagement.
Last year, police cautioned Lungu against jogging in public, deeming it “political activism.”
Meanwhile, a human rights body urged the Zambian government to overturn the conviction of opposition official Raphael Nakacinda for allegedly defaming the president in 2021.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) warned that Nakacinda’s 18-month prison sentence could stifle freedom of expression in Zambia, awaiting a government response.
SOURCE: BBC
