Lusaka magistrate Greenwell Malumani has ordered that opposition UPND leader Hakainde Hichilema be attended to by his personal medical doctor saying it is the right of the accused to receive speedy and proper medication.

Ruling on some preliminary issues raised by HH’s lawyers today, the court also ordered that HH be transferred from Lilayi Training College to Lusaka Central Prison (Chimbokaila).

Mutinta Hichilema at Lusaka Magistrates Court-picture by Tenson Mkhala
Hakainde Hichilema’s wife Mutinta at Lusaka Magistrates Court-picture by Tenson Mkhala

Magistrate Malumani also ordered that HH’s family; his wife Mutinta, children and five others, be granted access to the accused.

Magistrate Malumani further accorded HH access to basic needs which are to be provided by the officer in charge at the correctional facility where he is remanded.

He further ordered that HH must be allowed at least one hour with his defense lawyers to confer on the charges he is facing.

Magistrate Malumani said the court would study the other issues before giving a comprehensive ruling later.

This is in a matter in which HH and five others are charged with treason; it is alleged that they conspired to overthrow President Edgar Lungu.

HH was in high spirits and he flashed the UPND symbol at his supporters who filled the courtroom.

The matter was however adjourned to Wednesday April 19th, 2017 at 09:00 hours.

UPND leader Hakainde Hichilema waves at his supporters at Lusaka's Magistrates Court before being taken to Lusaka Central Prisons-pictures by Tenson Mkhala
UPND leader Hakainde Hichilema waves at his supporters at Lusaka Magistrates’ Court before being taken to Lusaka Central Prisons-picture by Tenson Mkhala
Police keep vigil at Lusaka Magistrates’ Court – picture by Tenson Mkhala