David Lewis Rubongoya has claimed that more than 3,000 supporters of the party are currently being held in detention across the country over what he described as “unknown or unclear charges.”
Speaking during a party briefing, Rubongoya said NUP has so far managed to trace and verify only 616 detained supporters, warning that thousands more remain unaccounted for.
He said several families have reportedly failed to locate relatives allegedly arrested during recent political activities and election-related operations, raising concerns about due process and the protection of constitutional rights.
Rubongoya called on security agencies and relevant government institutions to disclose details surrounding the arrests, including where the detainees are being held and the specific charges against them.
He also urged human rights organizations and legal bodies to intervene and closely monitor the situation.
By press time, authorities had not issued an official response to the allegations. However, security agencies have previously maintained that arrests are carried out within the law and are based on suspected criminal activity, not political affiliation.
The claims come amid heightened political tension following the recently concluded general elections, which have been disputed by sections of the opposition.
NUP leaders say they will continue documenting cases, providing legal support to affected supporters, and pushing for accountability and transparency from state institutions.
