It is alleged that Saliya Laisha of unknown residential area in Rufunsa on January 5, 2022 in Lusaka with intent to bring President Hakainde Hichilema into hatred, ridicule and contempt, published a defamatory matter by word of mouth.

Laisha alleged that: “President Hakainde has sacrificed the six Seventh Day Adventist youths who died in the Kariba Dam in Siavonga, Southern Province so that he works well as he has failed to work.”

Laisha appeared before magistrate Nthandose Chabala and pleaded not guilty.

Magistrate Chabala has set March 18 for commencement of trial.