The recent comments made by Laura Miti, a Commissioner of the Human Rights Commission in Zambia, in response to the United Nations’ report condemning the state of human rights in Zambia, have sparked significant controversy. Her defense of President Hakainde Hichilema’s government, coupled with her dismissive attitude toward the UN’s findings, raises serious questions about her impartiality and suitability for the role she holds. Given these concerns, it is imperative that Laura Miti resigns from her position.

In her response on X (formerly Twitter), Laura Miti acknowledged the “ongoing harassment/arrests of opposition leaders & functions” but disputed the UN’s assertion that “citizens are fearful to speak out,” claiming, “No! Zambians are loud, unapologetic & even obscene in their criticisms. No arrest of the clergy either”. However, this statement is not only misleading but also fails to account for the increasing number of incidents involving the harassment and arrests of clergy who have spoken out against the government.

For instance, the Archbishop of Lusaka, Alick Banda, was publicly called a “Lucifer” by UPND Secretary General Batuke Imenda after defending priests who criticized the government. Despite efforts to prosecute Imenda privately after the police refused to act, the Director of Public Prosecutions, Gilbert Phiri, denied consent for the prosecution. This blatant disregard for justice demonstrates the extent to which the current government protects its allies while targeting dissenters.