Zambian security forces have arrested 11 individuals, including senior opposition figures, who the government alleges were involved in an insurrection plot. The arrests followed a raid in the capital, Lusaka, where the leading opposition presidential candidate, Brian Mundubile, was present. Mundubile described the incident as an "attempt on my life," stating that colleagues were shot in his presence.
The government, through top civil servant Patrick Kangwa, asserted that those arrested were connected to "military plans involving foreign nationals and illegal military training camps." Kangwa added that the individuals posed a "serious threat to state security" and were found with "high-grade military weapons," ammunition, and materials intended for an armed uprising. The authorities also allege that shots were fired at law enforcement officers, leading to an exchange of fire.
Among the arrested were Patrick Mwansa, husband of Tasila Lungu, daughter of former President Edgar Lungu, and other politicians. The suspects are currently held in custody in Lusaka.
Mundubile, who is trailing incumbent Hakainde Hichilema in the presidential vote count, had previously declared victory and raised concerns about alleged voting irregularities. Observers, in preliminary statements, described election day as largely peaceful but noted concerns regarding late electoral reforms and media access.
Following the raid, Mundubile claimed he was interrogated by Zambian army officers over videos he released and alleged he was assaulted while in custody, claims that authorities have denied. He also accused Tanzania of interfering in the election, an allegation Tanzania has firmly rejected.
Zambia's electoral commission had briefly suspended the counting and announcement of results due to reported violence against polling staff and the theft of ballot papers. The suspension was lifted the same day, with the commission stating the security threat had been contained.