In a decisive verdict, the Kawambwa Magistrates’ Court has convicted Pambashe Member of Parliament, Ronald Chitotela, and six others of various offences committed during the August 2021 general elections.
Chitotela, a Patriotic Front (PF) MP, faces a severe sentence of not less than 10 years after being found guilty of arson. His sentencing has been referred to the high court. His Kawambwa counterpart, Nixon Chilangwa, was acquitted of arson charges but found guilty of malicious damage, threatening violence, and four counts of assault. Chilangwa received a 60 month sentence for malicious damage, 11 months for threatening violence, and 18 months for assault. The sentences will run concurrently.
Kalumba Chifumbe was sentenced to 60 months for malicious damage to property, 18 months for threatening violence, and 11 months for Assault. Davy Kaniki was found guilty of malicious damage to property and sentenced to 60 months imprisonment, he was also convicted of 3 counts of assault and sentenced to 11 months imprisonment for each count. Chabu Chitotela was convicted of malicious damage to Prooerty and sentenced to 60 months imprisonment. He was also convicted of two counts of assault and sentenced to 11 months imprisonment. Kunda Chitotela was convicted of malicious damage to property and sentenced to 60 months imprisonment with hard labour. He was also found guilty of one count of Assault and sentenced to 11 months imprisonment, while Charity Musantu was acquitted of all charges.
Magistrate Martin Namushi denied the bail applications for Chilangwa and Chifumbe, citing unconvincing reasons for their release. The defence team is expected to renew their application for bail pending appeal in the High Court.
The convictions and sentences have significant implications for the accused persons and the community at large. The court’s decision sends a strong message that violence and destruction of property will not be tolerated, especially during elections.
The case will continue to unfold as the accused persons appeal their convictions and sentences in the High Court. The High Court’s decision will provide further clarity on the legal principles guiding such cases and the consequences for those found guilty of similar offences.
