Police in Zambia have arrested an official of the former ruling Patriotic Front (PF) Ralph Nakachinda for allegedly defaming President Hakainde Hichilema.

According to a press statement seen by this publication, Nakachinda was arrested in reference to remarks he made during his campaign trail in Chilenje’s Mapoloto area.

“13th January, 2022- Police have warned and Cautioned Raphael Mangani Nakachinda aged 43 of plot number 1794 Kafue District for the offences of Proposing violence Contrary to Section 91 (1)(C) and Defamation of the President Contrary to Section 69 of the Penal Code of the laws of Zambia,” read the statement.

According to the statement, Nakachinda is alleging that President Hichilema and his foreign friends are plotting to evict residents of Mapoloto.

“In the recording which went viral on various social media, he is alleging that the Republican President Mr Hakainde Hichilema and his foreign friends are planning to evict residents of Mapoloto and to build a shopping mall there,” read part of the statement.

Adding to that Nakachinda is accused of using vulgar language against the Zambian President hence his detention.