Raphael Nakacinda fined for seditious comments in Zambia

Raphael Nakacinda, the Secretary General of a Patriotic Front faction, has been convicted of seditious practice by the Lusaka Magistrate’s Court. Chief Resident Magistrate Davis Chibwili fined Nakacinda K2,400, ordering that the fine be paid immediately or he will serve three months of simple imprisonment in default.

The conviction stems from a September 2024 video posted to Facebook, in which Nakacinda alleged that President Hakainde Hichilema had ordered the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), and Zambia Police to raid the Chifwema residence of former President Edgar Lungu. Prosecutors argued the statements were intended to incite Patriotic Front members to gather at the residence and prevent the raid, potentially causing public disorder.

Nakacinda maintained his innocence throughout the trial, arguing that he was commenting on matters of public interest and exercising his constitutional right to speak on issues involving public figures. However, Magistrate Chibwili ruled that the evidence met the threshold for seditious practices, noting that political leaders have a responsibility to be measured in their language, particularly regarding security operations involving former heads of state. The judge also cautioned politicians against making reckless remarks on social media.