Civil Society Groups Demand Answers on Legal Basis of Emmanuel Jay Banda's Apprehension in Mozambique

Local and regional civil society organisations and human rights defenders have called on the Zambian and Mozambican governments to explain the lawful basis on which opposition politician Emmanuel Jay Banda was apprehended in Mozambique and transferred to Zambia.

In a joint statement issued in Lusaka on 18 October 2026, the 24 signatories said they do not condone the language Mr Banda has used in his online videos, which they called vulgar and, in parts, possibly criminal. They noted that he had earlier been charged with attempted murder and aggravated robbery and became a fugitive when he fled the country.

But they argued that this does not excuse the two governments from following due process and international law. A suspect apprehended outside lawful channels such as extradition and mutual legal assistance, they said, "is a victim of lawlessness, whatever he is alleged to have done." They stressed that they are not declaring the apprehension unlawful, only asking whether the proper procedures were observed, and said that asking is "not disloyalty."

The statement also says the Zambian Government cancelled the passports of six critical Zambians in September 2026 without following the procedures prescribed by law, and claims this, taken together with the apprehension, points to "the selective and non-transparent use of State power."

The signatories said they are equally concerned by reports that Mr Banda is in a critical condition at Maina Soko Military Hospital in Lusaka. They called for his condition to be disclosed, for access to doctors of his choice, his family and his lawyers, and for an independent investigation into how he was apprehended, transferred and treated. They also asked that he be brought promptly before a competent court if he is to be charged.

They further reminded the Government that Zambia's seat on the UN Human Rights Council brings "greater duties and responsibilities to uphold human rights at home."