Zambia opposition leader Mundubile held over alleged treason
Zambian opposition leader Brian Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, are in police custody after being questioned over an alleged offence of treason, according to the Zambia Police Service.
Police said both men have provided “warn and caution” statements, a procedure that can precede formal criminal charges. Authorities have not yet disclosed the specific allegations behind the treason investigation.
The development comes amid heightened political tensions following Zambia’s August 13 presidential election, in which incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema was declared the winner with about 60% of the vote. Mundubile, who finished second, has disputed the result, alleging electoral irregularities. Hichilema has rejected claims that the election was fraudulent.
Mundubile had previously gone into hiding after police summoned him over alleged threats to national security. Security forces also raided a property linked to him, arresting several people. During that operation, former minister Mutotwe Kafwaya was shot dead, according to reports, while authorities said those arrested were linked to an alleged plan for an armed insurrection. Mundubile has denied involvement in any such plan.
The arrests have raised concerns over political freedoms and the handling of opposition figures following the election. The United Nations and rights groups have expressed concern over some of the arrests and urged authorities to ensure due process.
The latest development is particularly significant because Zambia has historically been regarded as one of the more stable multiparty democracies in the region. The political tensions following the election, including the closure of the courts on the final day for filing an electoral challenge, have therefore attracted increased scrutiny.
For now, it remains an allegation, not a conviction. Police have yet to publicly outline the evidence supporting the treason investigation or announce formal charges against Mundubile and Zulu.
