INSPECTOR-GENERAL of Police Francis Kabonde has implored police officers to strictly observe human rights in the execution of their duties. Kabonde said upholding human rights is central to encouraging the delivery of fair justice.

Speaking at a Criminal Investigations Re-training Programme at Lilayi College in Lusaka on Monday April 27, Kabonde pointed out that a poor human rights record had far reaching consequences on the country. He said a blemished human rights record could deter investors from investing into the country. Kabonde said no investor would want to invest into a country where human rights are sidelined. He stressed that his Command will not put up with officers found guilty of violating human rights.

And American Ambassador to Zambia Donald Booth commended the Zambian government for its commitment to upholding human rights. Booth said the Zambian government has been forceful and stringent in ensuring that human rights of the Zambian citizenry are upheld. He said it is for this reason that the American government would continue to support Zambia in efforts aimed at ensuring that human rights are enjoyed by every Zambian.

Booth said the American government would channel K16 billion towards human rights and other related training programmes across the country. Zambia is among other selected Southern African countries being supported by the American government in re-training of police officer in human rights related issues. ZANIS