Zambia Human Rights Commission Secures Release of Man Arrested Over Facebook Post

The Human Rights Commission (HRC) of Zambia has successfully secured the release of 28-year-old Jeremiah Nkunika, who was arrested on Monday, 12th May 2025, on charges under the newly enacted Cyber Crimes Act No. 4 of 2025.

Nkunika was charged with Prohibition of Harassment and Humiliation, contrary to Section 22 of the Act. He was detained at Kabwata Police Station until this afternoon, when the Commission facilitated his release on police bond at approximately 13:00 hours, pending a possible court appearance on 29th May 2025.

In a key development, the HRC intervened to allow Jeremiah’s father, Mr. Peter Nkunika, to act as a surety despite initial resistance from police officers who allegedly insisted that only government-employed individuals could serve as sureties. The Commission successfully argued that Mr. Nkunika  a well-known businessperson based on Cairo Road  is a credible and traceable guarantor.

Earlier in the day, HRC officials visited the detainee to assess his welfare and ensure compliance with his constitutional right to liberty, as outlined in Article 13 of the Bill of Rights and Section 33 of the Criminal Procedure Code (Chapter 88).

The Commission commended officers at both Kabwata Police Station and Police Headquarters for their professional conduct and cooperation in facilitating Nkunika’s release.

HRC Spokesperson Mweelwa Muleya confirmed that the Commission will continue monitoring the case to ensure full compliance with Articles 13 and 18 of the Bill of Rights.