Zambia police question opposition leader Mundubile for treason after disputed election
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Zambian police are questioning opposition leader Brian Mundubile and his running mate Makebi Zulu over alleged treason following the disputed August 13 presidential election. The two surrendered to police in Lusaka on August 27 after spending two weeks at an international human rights organisation. The questioning comes as President Hakainde Hichilema is due to be sworn in for a second term on Tuesday.
Key Facts
- Brian Mundubile won about 38 percent of the vote in the August 13 presidential election, finishing second to Hakainde Hichilema.
- Zambia's entire judiciary closed on Monday, the last valid day to file an election petition, citing security reasons.
- Former cabinet minister Mutotwe Kafwaya was shot and killed during a police crackdown at Mundubile's home two weeks ago, in which 11 people were arrested.
- The Constitutional Court said on Tuesday it had not received any petition challenging the election outcome, clearing the way for Hichilema's swearing-in.
Treason Investigation
Mundubile and Zulu are in police custody after being questioned in connection with an alleged offence of treason, the Zambia Police Service said on Thursday. Zambian state media reported that Mundubile surrendered to police in Lusaka on August 27 after spending two weeks at an international human rights organisation. Police said warn and caution statements had been recorded, a step typically preceding formal charges. Treason is a serious offence in Zambia and carries severe penalties upon conviction.
Election Challenge Blocked
Mundubile promised to challenge the election result in court, but Zambia closed its entire judiciary on Monday, the last day for filing an objection, citing security reasons. Under Article 103 of the Zambian Constitution, an election petition must be filed within seven days of the winner being declared. Filing the challenge automatically pauses the presidential swearing-in under Article 104. The Constitutional Court said on Tuesday it had not received any petition challenging the election outcome, clearing the way for Hichilema to be sworn into office. Chief Justice Mumba Malila said he had received a petition from a member of the public on his private email address, calling the submission highly irregular but referring it to the Constitutional Court for consideration.
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Zambia police question opposition leader Mundubile for treason after disputed election
