MP Munir Zulu Arrested For Tribal Remarks

Munir Zulu, the Independent Member of Parliament for Lumezi, has been arrested and charged with expressing hatred, ridicule, or contempt towards individuals based on their race, tribe, place of origin, or colour.

 The charges are a result of alleged comments he made on March 28, 2023, at Longacres Police Post car park following his release from police custody. He was granted a police bond and is expected to appear in court.

Zulu's arrest comes after he reportedly claimed that people from Lumezi were more intelligent than those from Bweengwa. The ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) responded to his arrest by warning him against tribal talk.

The party's National Deputy Youth Chairman, Trevor Mwiinde, said in a statement that they welcomed Zulu's arrest and charges, as he had engaged in cheap tribal talk.

Mwiinde denounced the use of inflammatory language by Munir Zulu, which he said was a threat not only to him but also to the country. He called on Zambians to ignore tribalists like Zulu, as they could cause instability in the nation.

Mwiinde expressed disappointment in Zulu, who he said was a disgrace to the youth population. Instead of serving as a shining example of youth leadership, Zulu allowed himself to be used by selfish individuals with the intention of destabilising the country.

Zambians have been urged to reject tribalism and embrace unity for the sake of national development. The government has reiterated its commitment to preventing hate speech and tribalism in the country.