The Zambian government has revoked the passports of six prominent critics of President Hakainde Hichilema and his ruling United Party for National Development, citing national security concerns.
The revocations were announced in a Government Gazette issued on Friday.
Those affected include former Ambassador to Ethiopia and ex-Permanent Representative to the African Union, Emmanuel Mwamba, historian and academic Dr Sishuwa Sishuwa, former lawmakers Emmanuel Banda and Binwell Mpundu, former State House aide Kaizer Zulu, and blogger Lillian Mutambo.
The government said the passports were cancelled for “security reasons in the interest of national security.”
According to the gazette, the cancelled documents are no longer valid for identification, travel or any official purpose, warning that their use could constitute an offence.
It also directed public institutions, financial institutions, border authorities, law enforcement agencies and other relevant bodies not to accept or rely on the cancelled passports.
“Any person in possession of any of the cancelled documents specified in the Schedule is required to surrender the document immediately to the Department of National Registration, Passport and Citizenship, Immigration or Zambia Police,” the gazette stated.
The six individuals are among outspoken critics of Hichilema and his administration.
The latest move comes amid what critics describe as a wider government crackdown following Hichilema’s re-election.
Last week, the government reportedly cancelled the national identity documents and revoked the citizenship of opposition politician and lawyer Celestine Mukandila.
Several opposition figures, including Hichilema’s main challenger, Brian Mundubile, are also being held on treason charges.
