Fred M’membe, president of the Socialist Party, appeared in the Lusaka Magistrates’ Court on Thursday and pleaded not guilty to charges of seditious practice.
The 65-year-old M’membe is accused of making a social media post alleging that Felix Tshisekedi, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), paid US$20 million to silence Zambia.
M’membe faces charges under Section 57(1)(c) and Section 60(1)(b) of the Penal Code, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.
In the contentious post, M’membe expressed concerns that President Tshisekedi’s corruption and abuses have extended beyond the DRC, implicating regional stability and governance, including in Zambia.
He claimed that Tshisekedi’s alleged actions, including the $20 million payment, reflected poorly on regional leadership and could have serious consequences for Zambia.
M’membe further criticized Zambian leadership for allegedly accepting funds from a nation in turmoil, accusing them of greed and corruption.
The post was considered seditious under Zambian law, as it was deemed capable of inciting hatred, contempt, or disaffection against the established government.
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