Hector Soondo, president of United for Better Zambia (UBZ), appeared in court yesterday as a defense witness in the sedition case against Lumezi Independent Member of Parliament Munir Zulu, describing the accusations as baseless.
Testifying before Magistrate Trevor Kasanda, Soondo argued that Zulu should not be labeled an alarmist for stating that President Hakainde Hichilema intended to dissolve parliament and call for early elections.
Zulu has pleaded not guilty to charges of seditious practices, contrary to Section 57(1)(b) and Section 60(1)(e) of the Penal Code, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia. Soondo testified that he became aware of Zulu’s statements through the media and decided to act as a defense witness.
“In the same video, Honourable Munir Zulu was addressing Members of Parliament, stating that the President would come to dissolve Parliament. Later, I learned through the media that he was arrested, charged and taken to court because of this video,” Soondo said.
He added that he believed Zulu had acted responsibly by “cooling the tempers” of those gathered at the police station.
During cross-examination, Soondo was asked whether many people had followed Zulu’s message.
“I can’t confirm,” he responded.
When questioned if parliament was ever dissolved, Soondo confirmed, “It never happened.”
He maintained that Zulu’s statement was not misleading. However, when asked if the statement could have misled those without formal education, he admitted, “Yes.”
The defense also called businessman Suzyo Mbale, 43, of Mtendere, who testified that he came across Zulu’s video on social media while following developments regarding the arrest of former First Lady Esther Lungu.
He said tensions were high at Ibex Hill Police Station, where Zulu made statements about the President’s alleged plan to dissolve Parliament.
“In my view, Honourable Munir Zulu helped calm the situation. When he said parliament would be dissolved, people became less confrontational, and the tension between police and the protesters eased,” Mbale stated.
Mbale also argued that Zulu was merely exercising his democratic right as an MP.
Under cross-examination, Mbale confirmed he was not present at the police station but had watched the events unfold through social media.
When asked whether Zulu’s statement was misleading, he replied, “I can’t confirm.”
However, he acknowledged that parliament was never dissolved following Zulu’s claims.
Magistrate Kasanda expressed concern over the pace of the trial, urging the defense to expedite proceedings.
“This issue of calling two witnesses at a time should end. Ensure you call at least five to ten witnesses. The defense cannot go on for a year,” the magistrate directed before adjourning the matter to today.
