By Esther Chisola
The Lusaka Magistrates’ Court has found human rights activist Brebner Changala with a case to answer on a case where he is charged with one count of seditious practices.
When the matter came up for ruling, Lusaka Chief Resident Magistrate Davies Chibwili said he had found that the words allegedly uttered by the accused may be viewed as prima facie.
“I find that the words allegedly uttered by the accused, which words were played repeatedly in court and which words have been denied, clearly accusing the government of having a hand in criminal activities and possible terrorist acts against its own citizens may be viewed as Prima facie,” ruled the court.
Magistrate Chibwili further said the same words had an effect of causing disaffection against the government.
“Having a seditious insinuation and they have the effect of causing disaffection against the government as by law established,” said the court.
The court found Changala with a case to answer and placed him on his defence.
“I find the accused with a case to answer and accordingly put him on his defence in accordance with Section 207 of the CPC (Criminal Procedural Code),” ruled the court.
The matter comes up on October 7, 2024 for commencement of defence.
