Nkana MP Binwell Mpundu Released on Bond Amid Political Arrest Allegations

 


Nkana Member of Parliament Binwell Mpundu has been released on police bond, pending a court appearance, following his arrest earlier this week. The lawmaker’s lawyer, Makebi Zulu, confirmed the development, describing his client’s arrest as politically motivated and an affront to democracy.

Speaking to the press, Zulu expressed dismay at the charges leveled against Mpundu, which stemmed from remarks he made urging Zambian citizens to defend themselves. He questioned the rationale behind the arrest, emphasizing that Mpundu’s statements were within the bounds of lawful expression. “This is nothing short of a political witch-hunt. My client was exercising his constitutional right to speak on matters that concern the public,” Zulu stated.

The arrest sparked widespread criticism, with members of the Patriotic Front (PF) and other opposition figures denouncing what they see as increasing government hostility toward dissenting voices. PF Vice President Given Lubinda was present at the police station to ensure Mpundu’s release and strongly condemned the arrest.

Lubinda accused President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration of weaponizing state institutions to silence political opponents. “This is a government that thrives on intimidation and repression. Opposition leaders must prepare for continued detentions because this regime will not spare any voice that challenges its authority,” Lubinda said.

The PF Vice President further called on Zambians and the international community to remain vigilant, warning that Zambia’s democratic space was rapidly shrinking under the current administration. “We must defend the freedoms that our forefathers fought for. What we are witnessing is an assault on democracy and the rule of law,” he added.

Mpundu’s arrest has reignited concerns about the perceived erosion of civil liberties in Zambia. Critics have accused the United Party for National Development (UPND) government of stifling opposition and politicizing key governance institutions.

As Mpundu prepares to appear in court, his arrest has become a rallying point for opposition leaders, who are calling for unity in defending the country’s democratic values. The case is expected to draw significant public and international attention as concerns grow over the state of human rights and political freedoms in Zambia.

This incident marks yet another chapter in the ongoing struggle between the ruling UPND and the opposition, with both sides accusing each other of undermining democracy. For now, all eyes are on the upcoming court proceedings, which many believe will be a litmus test for Zambia’s justice system.

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