THE Lusaka Magistrates’ Court has found Lumezi Independent member of parliament Munir Zulu with a case to answer in a matter in which he is charged with Seditious Practices.
Zulu stands charged with one count of Seditious Practices Contrary to Section 57 (1) (e) of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.
It is alleged that Zulu, on September 6, 2023, in Lusaka, did utter seditious words on social media, to which he claimed to have had reliable information that, “the President was going to dissolve parliament on Friday, September 8, 2023 after addressing parliament, and that he was going to call for early elections. He further incited Zambians to prepare for campaigns after the President dissolves parliament.” Words intended to incite violence or any offence prejudicial to public order or in disturbance of the public peace.
When the matter came up for a ruling on case or no case to answer before Magistrate Trevor Kasanda, Thursday, Zulu was found with a case to answer and placed on his defence.
“Based on the evidence adduced by the prosecution, I am satisfied that a prima facie case has been established against the accused and I hereby place him on his defence. He may be informed of his rights,” said Magistrate Kasanda.
Zulu’s lawyer McQueen Zaza informed the Court that the accused would give evidence on oath and call two witnesses to aid his defence.
Magistrate Kasanda adjourned the matter to May 30, June 3 and 4, 2024 for Zulu’s defence.
