By 
Independent Lumezi Member of Parliament, Munir Zulu, has denied accusations of hate speech, arguing in court that his comparison of the intelligence of people from Lumezi to those from Bweengwa was misunderstood.
Appearing before the Lusaka Magistrates’ Court, Zulu maintained that his statement was a simple comparison rather than an expression of hatred or contempt.
“I never intended to insult or demean anyone. I was surprised that using the term ‘more intelligent’ could be considered hate speech,” Zulu told the court.
Read more: Lumezi MP, Zulu, denies criminal libel charges, cites parliamentary privileges
During cross-examination, Zulu admitted making the remark but conceded that he had no evidence, survey, or study to support his claim about the intelligence of Lumezi residents.
When questioned about his choice to reference Bweengwa, Zulu stated that, as fellow Zambians, he had the right to mention them.
He also cited President Hakainde Hichilema’s declaration of Eastern Province as a “symbol of academic excellence” as a basis for his comment.
The prosecution argued that Zulu’s statement, allegedly made on March 28, 2023, in Lusaka — “I am a villager from Lumezi, but I can tell you that villagers from Lumezi are more intelligent than villagers from Bweengwa” — expressed contempt toward the people of Bweengwa.
In response to complaints from individuals who felt insulted, Zulu suggested that political motivations could be influencing the backlash but admitted he had no proof to substantiate his claim.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments