By 
The Citizens First (CF) Party says it is deeply concerned about the deteriorating health condition of Faith Munthali, who is currently detained at Isoka Police Station following her arrest in Mafinga District.
Munthali was arrested and charged on Monday, September 14, and subsequently detained in Isoka, according to a public statement issued on September 15.
In the statement issued in Lusaka, Mary Zambezi speaking for the party said Munthali became seriously ill during the night in detention and initially struggled to access hospital care.
Zambezi said her condition became critical, prompting officers to take her to hospital where she was treated for dangerously high blood pressure.
She claimed after being returned to the police cells, Munthali collapsed and had to be rushed back to the hospital, where she is currently under medical care.
“This situation is particularly concerning given Hon. Munthali’s reported medical history, including a serious heart condition, recurrent bronchial attacks, and a recent major operation,” Zambezi said.
She disclosed that both the family and the Party have already applied for police bond and provided the necessary sureties, but that the application had not yet been granted.
“We understand that both the family and the Party have already applied for police bond and provided the necessary sureties. However, the application has not yet been granted,” she said.
Similary, the Non-Governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) echoed Zambezi’s sentiments about the critical health condition of Munthali.
Beauty Katebe, speaking for the organization said it had learnt that Munthali was critically ill and currently admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a health facility in Isoka.
“Her condition was a matter of grave concern not only to her family and constituents but also to the broader women’s movement and all citizens who value justice, human dignity and protection of fundamental rights,” she said.
Katebe reminded authorities that every citizen was entitled to the highest attainable standard of healthcare and humane treatment, regardless of political affiliation, status or legal circumstances.
She said human rights principles and constitutional values required that every person in custody or under state responsibility be treated with dignity and respect.
“At this critical moment, the preservation of life must take precedence over all other considerations. We urge the authorities to act swiftly, compassionately and responsibly to safeguard Hon. Munthali’s health and wellbeing,” she said.
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