Solwezi Court Rules It Has No Jurisdiction in Mundubile, Zulu Case

Principal Resident Magistrate Mambwe Mukonde has ruled that the Solwezi Magistrates’ Court lacks jurisdiction to hear the two-count sedition case involving 2026 presidential candidate Brian Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, referring the matter to the High Court for further proceedings.

Citing provisions of the Subordinate Courts Act, Magistrate Mukonde said the High Court has jurisdiction to hear the matter. However, she clarified that she had no authority to determine whether the case should be heard in Lusaka.

The defence, led by lawyer Bonaventure Mutale, had challenged the Solwezi court’s jurisdiction, arguing that the alleged offences were committed in Lusaka and not Solwezi. The defence also sought permission for the accused to give oral evidence in support of the challenge.

Director of Public Prosecutions Gilbert Phiri opposed the application, arguing that it was not supported by law and that the issues raised were already covered by documentary evidence, including the accused persons’ warn and caution statements.

Magistrate Mukonde noted that the State had not disputed the contents of the statements or the defence’s assertion that the alleged offences occurred in Lusaka.

The matter had been scheduled for October 13, 2026, for a ruling on the preliminary issues, with the taking of plea and possible commencement of trial dependent on the outcome of the jurisdiction challenge.

The latest ruling means the matter will now proceed before the High Court for further determination.