Advisor to former Zambian president pleads not guilty to terrorism charges

High court sets Sept. 7 as start of trial in high-profile case

By James Kunda

LUSAKA, Zambia (AA) - Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu’s political advisor pleaded not guilty Monday to terrorism charges.

Christopher Zumani Zimba and three others were arrested on May 30 and appeared at Lusaka High Court to submit the plea.

Zimba appeared with his co-accused Given Phiri, Marlone Banda and Portipher Gwai.

It is alleged that between Feb.1 and Feb. 22, 2020 in the capital Lusaka, Zimba aided Phiri and Banda to conduct terrorist acts in Petauke, a district of Zambia's Eastern Province.

Between Feb. 22 and Feb. 23, 2020 in Petauke, the two while acting together allegedly procured 250 milliliters of Halothane and other substances as tools for the commissioning of terrorist acts.

Gwai is also facing one count of aiding terrorism acts contrary to Section 28 of the Anti-Terrorism and Non-Proliferation Act.

The high court has set Sept. 7 as the start of their trial.

Kaynak: