# Zambian treason charges and detainee legal proceedings

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/zambian-treason-charges-and-detainee-legal-proceedings
> Updated: 2026-10-28T11:12:59.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

In October 2026, the Zambian government announced its intention to oppose bail for Bishop Trevor Mwamba and 17 other co-defendants, including former presidential candidate Brian Mundubile and lawyer Makebi Zulu. The group faces charges of treason and the prohibition of terrorism. During constitutional bail proceedings in the Lusaka High Court, the Attorney General argued that the application is criminal in nature, while the accused maintained that their continued detention during investigations violates their constitutional rights.

By October 28, 2026, a three-judge bench of the Lusaka High Court issued a directive ordering the State and prison authorities to produce the 18 detainees in court. The detainees had been held for more than 62 days following allegations of treason linked to the disputed national elections held on August 13. The court warned that failure to comply with the order would require an explanation from prison authorities.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-28: Zambian High Court orders production of 18 political detainees

A Zambian High Court has ordered the production of 18 political detainees, including opposition leader Brian Mundubile, following more than 60 days of detention related to disputed national elections.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambian-high-court-orders-production-of-18-political-detainees

### 2026-10-21: Zambia government opposes bail for Bishop Mwamba and others

The Zambian government will oppose bail for Bishop Trevor Mwamba and 17 others facing treason and terrorism charges. A constitutional bail hearing is set for October 28, 2026.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-government-opposes-bail-for-bishop-mwamba-and-others

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Cite as: Zambian treason charges and detainee legal proceedings. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/zambian-treason-charges-and-detainee-legal-proceedings