HRC Says No Evidence Kambwili Needs Special Medical Care

The Human Rights Commission says it has found no evidence that jailed former information minister Chishimba Kambwili requires specialised medical treatment beyond what prison authorities are providing.

The commission visited Dr Kambwili at Lusaka Central Correctional Facility on 13 August, two days before opposition Patriotic Front leaders complained about his alleged deteriorating health.

Commission spokesperson Mweelwa Muleya said prison medical staff were adequately meeting Kambwili's health needs, including providing him with an elevated bed at the facility's clinic.

"The Zambia Correctional Service was facilitating medical access to Dr Kambwili and so far, the Commission was not privy to any report indicating that his health needs were beyond the capacity of the medical personnel," Mr Muleya said in a statement on Monday.

Dr Kambwili was transferred from Kasama prison to Lusaka on 5 August to attend court hearings. The former minister has faced multiple corruption charges since leaving office.

The rights commission said it would continue monitoring his situation and would only intervene based on medical advice.