Namiwa alleges denial of food, water in police custody

Detained human rights activist Sylvester Namiwa has alleged that he was denied food, drinking water, warm clothing, visits from relatives and access to legal representation while in police custody.

The allegations surfaced on Friday morning after UTM president Dalitso Kabambe and UDF president Atupele Muluzi visited Namiwa at Lingadzi Police Station.

The visit came less than a day after Kabambe was denied access to Namiwa when he spent about an hour at the station on Thursday evening seeking to see the activist.
In a statement issued after the visit, Muluzi said Namiwa told them that he had been denied basic necessities and access to his lawyers since his arrest.

“During our visit, Mr. Namiwa informed us that since his detention he has been denied access to food and water, warm clothing, visits from his relatives, and access to his lawyers up to the time of our meeting,” said Muluzi.

He said the allegations, if proven true, raise serious concerns about the treatment of detainees, noting that every person in custody is entitled to humane treatment and constitutional protections regardless of the accusations against them.

Muluzi called on authorities to investigate the claims, ensure Namiwa’s rights are respected and uphold the rule of law, saying the treatment of detainees is a measure of the country’s commitment to justice, human dignity and democracy.

Namiwa was arrested on Thursday and is being held at Lingadzi Police Station. Deputy National Police Public Relations Officer Alfred Chimthere said he was arrested on allegations of publishing false news and conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace.

The case has attracted growing public attention, with human rights groups and political leaders urging authorities to respect due process and constitutional rights as investigations continue.