Top Zambian opposition figures arrested days after presidential vote
The authorities allege they were involved in an insurrection plot but the leading opposition candidate says there was an attempt on his life.
Zambian authorities have apprehended 11 individuals, including prominent opposition figures, in connection with an alleged insurrection plot, the government announced. The arrests and seizure of weapons occurred just days after Thursday's presidential election, with vote counting still underway.
According to Patrick Kangwa, Zambia's top civil servant, the leading opposition presidential candidate, Brian Mundubile, was present during the raid in the capital, Lusaka. Mundubile characterized the Friday night operation as "an attempt on my life," claiming that "colleagues were shot" in his presence.
Mundubile is currently trailing incumbent Hakainde Hichilema, with results from over half of the constituencies tallied. He had previously declared victory and alleged voting irregularities, claims that authorities deny. Preliminary statements from observers described election day as largely peaceful and orderly, though concerns were raised about late electoral reforms, media freedom, and media access in the lead-up to the poll.
Kangwa provided further details about the raid, stating that those arrested were linked to "military plans involving foreign nationals and illegal military training camps." He asserted that these individuals posed "a serious threat to state security" and possessed "high-grade military weapons," ammunition, and other materials intended for an armed insurrection. Kangwa also alleged that shots were fired at law enforcement officers, leading to an exchange of fire.
Among those taken into custody were Patrick Mwansa, husband of Tasila Lungu (daughter of former Zambian President Edgar Lungu), and other politicians. The suspects are currently being held at various police stations in Lusaka.
Mundubile had made several allegations regarding the electoral process, including claims of military involvement at tallying centers and irregularities concerning ballot boxes. He later stated he was interrogated by Zambian army officers over two videos he released and alleged assault while in custody, which authorities denied. He also accused Tanzania of sending individuals to interfere in the election, an allegation the Tanzanian government firmly rejected as false and unfounded.
Zambia's electoral commission briefly suspended the counting and announcement of results on Friday, citing violence against polling staff and the theft of marked ballot papers. The suspension was lifted the same day, with the commission stating that the security threat had been contained.