Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has announced he is making moves to abolish the death penalty in the country.
“We will work with parliament to run this process as we transition away from the death penalty and focus on the preservation, and rehabilitation of life while still delivering justice for all,” he said on the eve of Africa Freedom Day celebration.
‘’Africa Freedom Day is a symbol of our collective commitment to secure a better future for all.”
To mark Africa Freedom Day the Zambian President also pardoned 2045 inmates, including 2012 ordinary inmates and 33 elderly inmates. He also commuted sentences for 607 inmates.
The last time any state execution took place was in the late 90s.
According to Ambrose Lifuna, the acting Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, the government has started addressing the problem of congestion in correctional facilities.
This includes various means such as advocating for community sentencing for minor offences.