Zambian police detained main opposition leader Brian Mundubile on treason charges after he surrendered following disputed elections. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
Mundubile, who challenged President Hakainde Hichilema in the Aug. 13 election, surrendered to police after seeking refuge at a United Nations building following the disputed vote two weeks ago. He surrendered alongside his running mate, Makebi Zulu.
Both recorded "warn and caution statements," according to police — a procedure that normally comes before formal charges are filed. They are being held in custody.
Hichilema was declared the winner of an unusually troubled presidential election in the copper-rich southern African nation that has a history of largely peaceful votes. Hichilema is expected to be inaugurated for a second five-year term next week.
Mundubile has rejected the result, claiming irregularities in the vote. He said he went into hiding after disputing the election results in fear for his life.
The treason allegations against Mundubile and Zulu follow a raid by security forces at Mundubile's home a day after the election. Authorities said 11 people were arrested in the raid and AK-47 assault rifles and other military equipment were found at the property.