LUSAKA, Zambia — Zambian opposition leader Brian Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, have been formally charged with treason, escalating political tensions following the country’s disputed presidential election.
Mundubile’s lawyer, Kambwa Aongola, told Reuters that the two opposition figures remained detained at Lusaka Central Police Station as of Saturday night after being charged with treason.
The charges follow Mundubile’s arrest on Thursday after he was questioned by police in connection with an alleged treason offence. Authorities have not publicly disclosed the specific conduct that forms the basis of the treason allegations.
The National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity presidential candidate finished second in Zambia’s August 13 election, which President Hakainde Hichilema was declared to have won with about 60% of the vote.
Mundubile has disputed the election outcome and alleged irregularities in the electoral process, while Hichilema has rejected allegations of electoral fraud.
The treason case comes amid a broader security crackdown following the election. Police had earlier said Mundubile and Zulu were being questioned over alleged threats to national security, while opposition figures have rejected allegations that they were involved in plans to destabilise the government.
The situation has drawn increased attention because of Zambia’s history of relatively peaceful political transitions. The United Nations and human rights groups have expressed concern over the detention of opposition figures and other individuals in connection with the post-election security operations.
Local reports on Sunday said the case had widened, with as many as 18 people reportedly facing treason charges. Lawyer Milner Katolo said Mundubile, Zulu, businessman Valden Findlay and other suspects had each been charged with one count of treason.
The developments are likely to intensify scrutiny of Zambia’s post-election political environment as the opposition challenges the conduct and outcome of the election.
