Former President Lungu called on the Southern African Development Community, the African Union, the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States, South Africa, and the United Nations Development Programme to support Mr. JJ Banda

Former President Lungu accused MP JJ Banda of serious misconduct and urgent health issues. Former President Lungu said in a Facebook message that the health of MP for Petauke Central, MP JJ Banda, has seriously deteriorated and he is currently undergoing or will soon undergo surgery at the Chipata General Hospital.

Former President Lungu said he and MP Banda’s family had previously feared that the MP’s health and life were rapidly deteriorating every day in state captivity, with no signs of improvement.

“We remain doubly and immensely saddened that our MP never had the opportunity to heal psychologically and recover physically from the brutal abduction and torture he suffered between May and June 2024. From the day of his abduction till date, Mr. Banda’s life has been subject to an arbitrary siege by the state, as well as constant and present danger as the state holds him captive in chains, disregarding his health and human rights – a bizarre situation in the 21st century. Today, Mr. Banda’s life is in high danger as his political tormentors are determined to crush and eliminate him. If Mr. Banda dies, we will place all the blame on President Hichilema. His blood will be on President Hichilema’s hands,” former President Lungu said.

The former president went on to say that it was heartbreaking to see the kidnappers mentioned by Mr. Banda walking free without any warrant or warning statement or even arrest! The alleged suspects include Mr. Clayson Hamasaka, State House Aide to President Hichilema, Mr. Levy Ngoma, and Trevor Mwende, the National Youth Vice Chairman of the United Party.

He asked why these kidnappers were allowed to go unpunished while the victims were imprisoned and their lives were threatened?

Former President Lungu demanded justice and rule of law for all and called on the State to immediately arrest and detain the kidnappers involved. He also called on all Zambians and partners including SADC, AU, EU, UK, US, South Africa, UNDP and other Zambian ambassadors to support Mr. Banda and his family and keep him in prayer during this difficult time.