UPND official sues State for K3.5m for unlawful imprisonment

By GRACE CHAILE

A UNITED Party for National Development (UPND) Nakonde official, Charles Sinyangwe, has taken the State to court, demanding K3.5 million in compensation for unlawful imprisonment.

Mr Sinyangwe, who is the UPND vice-chairperson for administration is also demanding K500, 000 in legal fees and exemplary damages, and citing the seriousness of the violation of his rights and the need for the State to be held accountable.

According to a statement of claim filed in the Lusaka High Court, Mr Sinyangwe was detained for five days in 2020 on account that he was involved in gassing people.

He claimed that his detention was baseless, unlawful, and politically motivated, causing him significant mental anguish and distress.

Mr Sinyangwe alleged that he was arrested on a Sunday and detained until Thursday, during which time he was not formally charged or informed of the reasons for his detention.

He claimed that his arrest and detention was orchestrated by the police in conjunction with the provincial leadership, allegedly as part of a broader effort to intimidate and silence opposition supporters.

Mr Sinyangwe is seeking compensation for false imprisonment, claiming that his detention was a clear violation of his rights under the Zambian Constitution.