Sampa granted K1 million bail after spending two nights in police cell

After spending two cold nights on the floor of police cells, Matero Member of Parliament, Miles Sampa, has been released on bail in the sum of K1 million in his own recognisance.

Sampa appeared before the Lusaka Magistrates’ Court under heavy police presence over allegations that he falsely claimed the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) had established a fake polling station in Chawama.

He pleaded not guilty to one count of unauthorised use of a computer or computer system, contrary to Section 20 of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act No. 4 of 2025.

The courtroom was packed with supporters, Patriotic Front officials and members of Sampa’s family, including his wife, as Magistrate Webster Milumbe granted him bail with two sureties, each bound in a like amount.

Sampa, 55, was arrested on January 20, 2026. The State alleges that on January 15, 2026, he used a Facebook page bearing his name to post claims that ECZ had opened an illegal tent polling station along Lilayi Road in Chawama and that a known Member of Parliament was ferrying voters from Chilanga.

The prosecution further contends that the post constituted seditious practices, contrary to Section 57(1)(a) as read together with Section 60(1)(e) of the Penal Code, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.

When the charge was read, Magistrate Milumbe asked the accused if he understood it, to which Sampa responded, “I understand.” Asked how he pleaded, Sampa replied, “I deny the charge.”

His legal team, led by Charles Changano and assisted by Jonathan Versancio and Celestine Mukandila, applied for bail, arguing that Sampa has a fixed abode and is not a flight risk.

The matter has been set for mention on February 2, 2026, while trial is scheduled for February 19.

Sampa, who appeared in high spirits and was seen embracing his wife Nchimunya, was released from Chimbokaila (Lusaka Remand Correctional Facility) hours later.

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