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Edith Nawakwi, leader of the Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD), plans to summon at least 75 witnesses in her defense against charges of seditious practices.
Lusaka Magistrate, Irene Wishimanga, ruled that Nawakwi had a case to answer, placing her on defense, which is set to begin on December 2, 2024.
Representing Nawakwi, lawyer Tresford Chali informed the court that she would testify under oath and would bring a significant number of witnesses to support her position.
Nawakwi faces two counts of seditious practices under section 57(1)(b) of the Penal Code, Chapter 87, of the Laws of Zambia.
The charges specify that on unknown dates between May 25 and May 28, 2024, Nawakwi allegedly made statements intended to incite hatred or contempt against the government.
In the first count, it is alleged that Nawakwi referred to the abduction of Member of Parliament Jay Jay Banda, describing it as “a dark day” for Zambia and implying government involvement in the incident.
She reportedly accused government officials, including President Hakainde Hichilema, of being complicit in the disappearance, urging them to return Banda safely to his family.
The second count claims that Nawakwi called on Zambian citizens to hold President Hichilema accountable for Banda’s disappearance, comparing the current situation to Zambia’s past under oppressive regimes.
She expressed concerns that the nation was returning to a time marked by the targeting and disappearance of political opponents.
Magistrate Wishimanga’s ruling underscores the gravity of the charges, given the political weight of Nawakwi’s statements and her explicit allegations against top government figures.
The case, which has already drawn national attention, is expected to explore Nawakwi’s allegations in depth, with her 75 witnesses likely to shed light on both the alleged incident and broader government conduct.
The trial is set to resume on December 2, 2024, with Nawakwi’s defense poised to vigorously contest the charges.
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