LUSAKA, Zambia — Zambian opposition leader Chilufya Tayali will spend this year’s Valentine’s Day in a Lusaka courtroom presenting his defense against government charges of inciting military mutiny through social media commentary.
The head of the small Economic and Equity Party was ruled by Magistrate Kelvin Soma on Monday to possess sufficient evidence against him to compel him to defend himself at trial next month rather than earn acquittal.
Tayali stands accused of using Facebook between late March and early April 2022 to foment rebellion amongst army ranks. Prosecutors specifically cite posts discussing soldiers' pay delays they argue encouraged insurrection against the current administration.
“I am satisfied that the prosecution has established a prima facie case against the accused and I accordingly place him on his defence,” Magistrate Soma pronounced in binding over the case for trial.
A defiant Tayali declared he would testify in his own defense on February 14th rather than stay silent and would also provide a witness to reinforce his innocence.
The embattled opposition leader denies allegations his social media activity detailing military salary grievances amounted to illegally provoking mutiny.
His pending full-fledged legal defense on lovers' day will provide fireworks as Tayali aims to persuade the court that his straight-talk crossed no criminal lines and constituted protected free expression.
