Lunga Member of Parliament Augustine Katotobwe has testified in defense of Lumezi lawmaker Munir Zulu, stating that Zulu’s comments regarding alleged injustices against opposition MPs did not constitute seditious practices.
Zulu is facing charges for seditious practices, for allegedly uttering words that raised discontent or disaffection among Zambians.
Testifying as a defense witness before the Lusaka Magistrate Court, Katotobwe argued that the allegations claiming Zulu’s statements incited public discontent against the government were speculative.
He stated that the people of Lunga Constituency, which has over 100,000 residents across 18 islands, were unaffected by the remarks.
“I recall a press briefing following the disappearance of Honourable Jay Jay Banda, where several MPs, including Honourable Munir Zulu, spoke. Zulu stated that the President, His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema, must ensure Jay Jay Banda is found, dead or alive. To the best of my knowledge, Zulu was exercising his rights as an elected MP,” Katotobwe said.
Katotobwe also pointed out that other prominent figures, including MP Maureen Mabonga, FDD President Edith Nawakwi, Danny Pule and civil activist Brebner Changala, had similarly raised concerns about Banda’s disappearance without facing equivalent scrutiny.
Regarding Zulu’s alleged statement about declaring Eastern Province a “no-go area,” Katotobwe clarified, “Zulu used the word ‘if,’ implying a conditional response. His statement aimed to provoke a solution from the Presidency, not to incite division. Katotobwe argued that Zulu’s remarks were a call to address lawlessness and ensure equitable governance.
“In my constituency, the statement had minimal impact. However, civic leaders, including myself, supported Zulu’s bravery in highlighting these critical national issues,” he said.
In response to Zulu’s assertion that “if I don’t succeed in defending myself, my children will,” Katotobwe dismissed claims of incitement.
“His statement reflected the prevailing mood of concern over MP safety and governance issues. Given the lack of convincing updates from the police on Banda’s disappearance, Zulu’s remarks sought to prompt a resolution, ensuring public and parliamentary safety,” Katotobwe testified.