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The trial of Chisanga Chanda, former Aide De Camp to late President Edgar Lungu, was adjourned on Wednesday after Chanda abruptly returned to South Africa upon receiving news of Lungu’s death.
Chanda is facing charges of allegedly assisting wanted suspect Shebby Chilekwa, who was later convicted and sentenced to 25 years for the 2019 murder of UPND cadre Lawrence Banda.
When the matter came up for continued trial before High Court Judge Ruth Chibbabbuka, defence lawyer, Charles Changano, informed the court that his client had left the country due to the unexpected death of the former head of state.
Changano stated that Chanda had returned to Zambia for the hearing but had to travel back to South Africa immediately after learning of Lungu’s passing.
Judge Chibbabbuka expressed her condolences to Chanda, his family, and the nation, noting the difficult circumstances surrounding the adjournment.
State advocate, Frank Sikazwe, did not object to the postponement, noting that the prosecution’s key witness was also unavailable due to national duty.
The court tentatively adjourned the matter to June 20, with a fallback date of June 27.
Chanda has pleaded not guilty to a charge of being an accessory after the fact to murder.
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