Two women from Chipata, Catherine Mphanza and Mary Lungu, have been sentenced to prison following a fast-tracked trial after they posted TikTok videos deemed insulting and harassing toward President Hakainde Hichilema.
The controversial videos, which emerged on June 20, 2025, included serious allegations that President Hichilema was behind the death of former President Edgar Lungu. In one of the videos, Mphanza used vulgar language and stated she would not vote for Hichilema in the 2026 general elections. In another, Lungu mocked the President’s appearance and echoed the accusation.
Mphanza faced two counts, while Lungu faced one count under Zambia’s Cyber Crimes Act No. 4 of 2025, particularly Sections 22(1)(a) and 3, which prohibit online harassment and humiliation.
Both women pleaded guilty before Magistrate Destiny Kalusopa and expressed remorse, claiming they were intoxicated and unaware of the gravity of their actions.
Although the offense carries a possible fine of K80,000, the magistrate ruled out a non-custodial sentence, citing the seriousness of the remarks, their potential to incite public disorder, and the need to protect the dignity of the presidency.
