Zambian opposition leaders appear in court on treason charges

Prominent Zambian opposition leaders Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu, along with 16 others, appeared before a three-judge panel at the Lusaka High Court for a bail hearing regarding treason and seditious practices charges. The detainees have been held in custody since August 27, following the August 13 general election.

Defense lawyer Sakwiba Sikota reported that the accused were woken at approximately 4 a.m. and transported from Kabwe to Lusaka without being provided food. The defense is seeking constitutional bail, arguing that the prolonged detention violates legal standards.

The prosecution requested an adjournment to prepare a response to the bail application. The court granted this request, ordering the State to file opposing documents by midday Monday, with the defense to reply by Tuesday. A full hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, October 21.