Blogger Musyani to know fate March 21, as Lusaka court prepares to give ruling in case of alleged threats against Yo Maps’ family

Lusaka Magistrate, Mutinta Mwenya has set March 21, 2025 as the date to rule on whether Facebook blogger, Elias Musyani, has a case to answer in a matter where he is accused of making threats of rape and abduction against musician Elton Mulenga, popularly known as Yo Maps’ wife, Kidist Kifle, and their daughter.

Musyani, who has pleaded not guilty, is charged under Zambia’s Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act No. 2 of 2021.

The state presented six witnesses, including prosecuting officer, Detective Sergeant Khondwani Masuwa, who testified that Musyani referred to Yo Maps’ daughter as “Gumugumu” (monitor lizard) in a WhatsApp call with the couple.

He also claimed Musyani would apologize for his online posts but later continue making similar statements.

Masuwa detailed his investigation, which involved verifying the identities of the complainants and linking Musyani to the Facebook page where the alleged offensive posts were made.

The court heard that the posts, dating back to 2021, included derogatory remarks about Kidist, referring to her as “long face” and making insinuations about her personal life.

He further testified that Musyani allegedly posted threats against the couple’s daughter, often signing off with his signature phrase, “Misula Shenu.”

The court also heard that Kidist was emotionally distressed and withdrew her daughter from school due to safety concerns, with teachers confirming the child’s absence.

Additionally, the prosecution presented a recording from That Zed Podcast, where Musyani claimed to have resolved issues with the couple, only to resume posting afterward.

A WhatsApp conversation in which Yo Maps warned Musyani against mentioning his child was also played in court.

During cross-examination, Musyani’s defense challenged the thoroughness of the investigation, noting that police did not seize any electronic devices from the accused or conduct a search of his residence.

The defense also pointed out that multiple Facebook accounts bore Musyani’s name, questioning whether he personally authored the posts.

They further argued that the term “long face” was used in various contexts and could not be definitively linked to Kidist.

Additionally, they suggested that some of Musyani’s statements may have been misinterpreted.

The court will deliver its ruling on March 21, 2025.

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