Rising musician Jackson Chikonde, popularly known as Jamaika Zed, has pleaded not guilty to charges of trafficking in 43 sachets of marijuana.
The 20-year-old, who is also a student at Evelyn Hone College, appeared before Lusaka Magistrate Chrispine Hampungani on Thursday with a humble demeanor, firmly denying the allegations.
According to the charge sheet, Chikonde was found in possession of 84.65 grams of marijuana without lawful authority on January 24, 2025.
The court has set February 20, 2025, as the commencement date for the trial.
In a statement, the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) said the musician had been under scrutiny for some time due to his controversial music videos.
The commission alleged that his content not only challenged law enforcement but also incited the public to engage in unlawful activities.
