KHAN’s visit, a turning point – State House
By Ruth Chayinda
State House says the visit by United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression IRENE KHAN marks an important turning point for Zambia as it prepares for its next General elections.
State House Chief Communications Specialist CLAYSON HAMASAKA says Ms. KHAN’s visit also reaffirms the significant improvements in the country’s human rights landscape since the New Dawn administration assumed office.
Mr. HAMASAKA says during the meeting with President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA at State House, the Special Rapporteur praised the government’s openness to engaging with the international human rights system and addressing challenges constructively.
He says Ms. KHAN met with various stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, and individuals, to assess the current state of civil and political rights.
In a statement issued to ZNBC News today, Mr. HAMASAKA said President HICHILEMA reaffirmed his government’s commitment to improving human rights, adding that fundamental freedoms, such as freedom of expression, must be upheld.
The Special Rapporteur’s findings have been shared with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and a final report, along with the government’s response, will be submitted to the UN Human Rights Council in June.
And commenting on the meeting, Special Assistant to the President for Legal Affairs, CHRISTOPHER MUNDIA said the comments made by the UN Special Rapporteur make it clear that human rights conditions are improving in Zambia.