Zambian opposition presidential candidate Brian Mundubile has been charged with treason alongside his running mate Makebi Zulu and 16 other people following the country’s recent general election.
Police confirmed that a total of 18 individuals had been formally charged in connection with the case. Mundubile and Zulu had remained in police custody since Thursday after reportedly resurfacing following a period in hiding. Their detention came amid a series of developments involving the two politicians and their supporters after the August 13 election.
Mundubile contested the election under the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity. He garnered approximately 1.8 million votes, falling behind incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema, who secured more than 2.9 million votes on the United Party for National Development ticket.
Tensions reportedly intensified shortly after vote counting began, when Mundubile declared himself the winner despite the official results showing Hichilema ahead. Following the declaration, some of Mundubile’s supporters were accused of attempting to take control of market stalls and a bus station in Lusaka, as well as other locations.
Authorities also linked Mundubile to allegations involving a militia group that was reportedly threatening peace and security in the aftermath of the election. Police subsequently made several arrests and recovered military-related equipment during their investigations.
Treason is a non-bailable offence in Zambia, and cases involving the charge are handled by the High Court.
Mundubile’s lawyer, Milner Katolo, separately confirmed that his client had been charged.
