HRC Resolves 82 of 100 Cases, Highlights Systemic Labour and Justice Failures

By Daily News Reporter 

In a gowing pattern of labour exploitation, prolonged detentions, and systemic inefficiencies in Zambia’s justice system has come into sharp focus, following a comprehensive review of human rights cases by the Human Rights Commission (HRC).

Presenting the findings in Lusaka, HRC Chairperson Dr. Pamela Towela Sambo painted a picture that goes beyond statistics—one that reflects the everyday struggles of vulnerable workers, detainees, and communities across the country.

Dr. Sambo said that the Commission reviewed 100 cases during its two-day meeting held from April 14 to 15, resolving 82 of them through mediation, redress, and institutional intervention.

" However, 18 cases remain under active investigation, underscoring the persistence of unresolved rights violations. But it is the nature of these cases—not just their number—that is raising alarm," said Dr. Sambo.

Among the most troubling findings is the widespread underpayment of workers, particularly domestic workers, security guards, and general labourers. Despite clear legal provisions, many employers are failing to comply with the statutory minimum wage.

Zambia’s Employment Code sets the minimum wage for domestic workers at K1,300 per month. Yet, the Commission revealed that some workers are earning as little as K800—barely enough to sustain basic living standards.

For many, this is not just an economic issue but a violation of dignity.

“These workers form a critical part of Zambia’s labour force, yet remain among the most vulnerable and least protected,” Dr. Sambo said,

She further emphasising that minimum wage compliance is not optional but a legal obligation.

Dr. Sambo also warned that such practices undermine the right to fair and just working conditions and pledged to intensify engagement with labour authorities to strengthen enforcement.

"Equally concerning are continued violations within the criminal justice system, particularly the over-detention of suspects," she added.

The Commission cited numerous cases where individuals were held in custody beyond the legally permitted 24-hour period without appearing before a court—often for minor offences such as petty theft or use of insulting language.

In some instances, suspects remained detained for weeks or even months due to delays in obtaining essential forensic reports. The lack of adequately equipped laboratories has forced reliance on centralised facilities in Lusaka, leaving suspects in remote areas such as Choma and Mongu in prolonged legal limbo.

In one striking example, suspects accused of serious offences were detained for up to 90 days while awaiting pathologists’ reports.

“These practices constitute serious violations of fundamental human rights,” she  noted, warning that such delays not only erode public trust but also expose the State to costly legal consequences.

The review also highlighted structural challenges within the justice system, including limited judicial infrastructure. In provinces like Muchinga, suspects are often transported long distances to access court services, only to remain in remand due to procedural delays.

This reality makes it difficult for many accused persons—particularly those from low-income backgrounds—to meet bail conditions, effectively prolonging their detention.

The ripple effects are significant. At the latest sitting alone, the Commission referred 56 cases to the Legal Aid Board for potential compensation claims against the State, signalling a growing financial risk linked to human rights violations.

Beyond labour and criminal justice issues, the Commission also raised concerns about land-related disputes involving traditional leaders. Cases were recorded in which individuals were evicted from customary land previously allocated to them—raising questions about property rights and potential discrimination.

While such cases were fewer in number, the Commission stressed their potential to disrupt livelihoods and social stability, calling for stronger engagement with traditional authorities to promote accountability and human rights compliance.

For the Human Rights Commission, the findings are not just a technical assessment—they are a reflection of lived experiences.

“The cases reviewed are not merely statistics. They reflect the lived realities of our fellow human beings,” Dr. Sambo said.

Behind each case lies a story: a domestic worker struggling to survive on below-minimum wages, a detainee waiting weeks for a court appearance, or a family displaced from land they once called home.

In response, the Commission has outlined a multi-pronged approach. This includes strengthening collaboration with the Labour Commissioner to enforce wage laws, enhancing public awareness on rights and responsibilities, and engaging law enforcement agencies to address unlawful detentions.

It also plans to work closely with the Legal Aid Board to support vulnerable victims and push for reforms that reduce the State’s exposure to compensation claims.

At the heart of these efforts is a broader goal: to build a culture where human rights are not only recognised in law.

As Zambia continues to pursue economic growth and institutional reform, the Commission’s findings serve as a timely reminder that development must go hand in hand with the protection of human dignity.

For now, the message from the Human Rights Commission is clear—laws exist, but enforcement must follow. And until it does, the most vulnerable will continue to bear the cost.

Members of the public have been encouraged to report violations through the Commission’s toll-free line 8181 and provincial offices, reinforcing the idea that safeguarding human rights is a shared national responsibility.