Former Finance Minister Dr Katele Kalumba is expected back before the Lusaka Magistrates’ Court today, November 10, 2026, as his trial in a case of seditious practices is scheduled to commence.
The 74-year-old is accused of publishing statements on Facebook between August 1 and 13, 2026, in which he allegedly accused President Hakainde Hichilema of being responsible for abductions, deaths and other acts ahead of the August general elections.
Dr Kalumba is also alleged to have warned that a rigged election would trigger an uprising involving women, youths and even children.
The statements form the basis of a charge of seditious practices, contrary to Sections 57(1)(b) and 60(1)(e) of the Penal Code.
When he previously appeared before Resident Magistrate Webster Milumbe, Dr Kalumba was asked whether he understood the charge and whether he admitted or denied it.
He went on to explain that his statement was intended as counsel to the President to respect the Constitution and protect the right to life.
He maintained that he meant no harm and was not advocating for the rigging of elections, which he said could cause instability in the country. He also clarified that although he made the statement, he did not publish it on his Facebook page.
The court subsequently recorded a plea of not guilty and set November 10 for commencement of trial.
In the same proceedings, the defence applied for bail pending trial under Section 123 of the Criminal Procedure Code, arguing that Dr Kalumba had a fixed abode, was not a flight risk and needed access to medical care outside prison due to his health condition.
Magistrate Milumbe granted him bail of K100,000 in his own recognisance, together with two working Lusaka based sureties in the same amount.
The matter now returns to court today, where proceedings are expected to move to trial.
By Josphat Hamakala
