Faith Musonda Sentenced for Disorderly Conduct Outside President Hichilema’s Residence

The Lusaka Magistrates Court has sentenced Faith Musonda to one month in prison and fined her K24 after she was convicted of disorderly conduct. Musonda was charged under Section 178 (1) of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia, which covers offences related to idle and disorderly persons.

The charge stems from an incident in which Musonda stormed the residence of President Hakainde Hichilema, allegedly conducting herself in a manner likely to cause a breach of the peace.

Initially pleading not guilty, Musonda later reversed her plea and admitted to the offence. Through her lawyer, Charles Changano, she told the court that she had no intention of harming the President and was acting out of personal desperation.

“It’s true my client is a first offender. She is remorseful for what has happened and has learnt her lesson during her time in custody,” said Changano. “She is a mother of two small children, who are currently schooling in Mkushi, and no one else can care for them apart from her.”

The court considered her plea of guilt, lack of prior offences, and personal circumstances in delivering the sentence.