Zambian opposition leader charged with treason

Zambian opposition leader Brian Mundubile has been charged with treason, according to his lawyer Milner Katolo. The arrest came after a deadly raid by authorities, forcing Mundubile into hiding. Mundubile contested the recent presidential election results, with incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema winning a second term. The authorities accused Mundubile's NRPUP party of planning an armed insurgency, which the party denied.

On Saturday, Mundubile's lawyer announced the treason charge against his client, along with 17 others, including Mundubile's running mate Makebi Zulu. Mundubile secured 38% of the vote, while Hichilema received 60% in the 13 August election. Following the poll, security forces raided a property in Lusaka, killing a former cabinet minister and arresting several politicians.

Mundubile and Zulu took refuge at the UN building in the city before being detained. The opposition was unable to challenge the election outcome as courts were sealed off by authorities. Hichilema is set to be sworn in for a second term on 1 September.