Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
Magistrate David Simusamba has committed UPND President Hakainde Hichilema and five others to the Lusaka High Court for trial in the offense of treason contrary to section 43 (cap 1) (d) of the penal code chapter 87 of the laws of Zambia.
Magistrate Simusamba says this is in accordance with the Director of Public prosecution’s committal certificate.
Mr. Hichilema was arrested on 10th April, 2017 on grounds that he wanted to usurp state power with five others.
This means that within 30 days after filing in the matter in the high court, the date shall be set for trial.
During this period Mr. Hichilema and the five others will remain in remand prison.
Particulars of the offense being Hakainde Hichilema, Hamusonde Hamaleka, Pretorious Haloba, Lastone Mulinduba, Wallance Chakawa and Muleya Hachinda between the 5th day of April 2017 and the 8th day of April 2017 at Lusaka and Mongu of the Lusaka and Western province respectively jointly and whilst acting together with other persons unknown did endevour to carry out by force an enterprise to usurp the executive power of the state in a matter of both public and general nature.
And in the letter of committal, State Advocate Miriam Mutebi on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutor has certified that this is a proper case for trial by the High Court.
Meanwhile, after 57 days of being absent from the court grounds, UPND Vice President Geoffrey Mwamba this morning made an unexpected appearance at the Lusaka Magistrate Court Complex to attend the court hearing of UPND President Hakainde Hichilema.
Mr Mwamba arrived in the company of his wife Chama Mwamba and former MMD National Secretary Major Richard Kachingwe.
His appearance at court was received with jubilation by some UPND supporters attending the court hearing.
Mr Mwamba later told Journalists that reports that he had run away from Zambia to seek asylum elsewhere were fabrications by Daily Nation proprietor Richard Sakala.