LAZ calls for independent probe into death of Mutotwe Kafwaya

The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) has added its authoritative voice to mounting national calls for an immediate, independent, and transparent inquiry into the tragic death of former Lunte Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister, Hon. Mutotwe Kafwaya. Mr. Kafwaya lost his life during an intelligence-led joint security operation conducted by the Central Joint Operations Committee (CJOC) at a premises in Lusaka’s upscale Kabulonga residential area. The incident has sent shockwaves across the political landscape, raising profound constitutional questions regarding state use of lethal force, personal liberties, and due process. According to official statements released by Inspector General of Police Graphel Musamba, the security operation took place following intelligence gathered from a previous high-value cash recovery. The police reported that the joint task force, comprising multiple security wings, encountered armed resistance upon arrival, leading to an exchange of gunfire in which an unidentified individual was critically wounded and later pronounced dead at the hospital. Days later, following widespread public speculation and anxiety over his whereabouts, family members positively identified the deceased as the former minister. The operation also resulted in the apprehension of several individuals, including former military commandos and retired police officers, alongside the seizure of firearms and tactical equipment. In response to these developments, LAZ President Arnold Kaluba issued a strongly worded statement noting the association's grave concern over the glaring inconsistencies between early official pronouncements and the eventual confirmation of Mr. Kafwaya's death. Legal experts and civil society actors have pointed out discrepancies involving government officials' initial handling of inquiries at medical facilities. LAZ emphasized that under Article 12 of the Zambian Constitution, the sacred right to life can only be restricted under strictly de