Human Rights Watch called on Zambia to halt the escalating crackdown after President Hakainde Hichilemas contested re-election in August, which recorded 71 cases of politically motivated arrests or prolonged detention, 14 alleged disappearances and 61 allegations of abuse. Opposition leader Brian Mondoville faces treason charges, while HRW has demanded an independent investigation into the killing of former minister Mototwe Kapua during a security raid. The organization also condemned the restrictions on election-related legal challenges and called on authorities to release arbitrarily detained people, ensure medical treatment and hold security forces accountable. here.