By PERPETUAL SICHIKWENKWE –
A FORTY-TWO-YEAR-OLD man yesterday appeared in the Lusaka magistrate court for spreading rumours that the Republican President would have died by May 30, 2014
This is in a matter in which Michael Achiume of Libala South Township is facing one count of publication of false news with intent to cause fear and alarm to the public.
It is alleged that Achiume on May 28, 2014 falsely published a statement which was likely to cause fear and alarm by stating that “the President will die by May 30, 2013”.
Achiume, who earlier pleaded not guilty before Magistrate Irene Wushimanga, could however not take plea yesterday after the charge sheet was amended by the State.
After the new charge was read out to him by Ms Wushimanga, his defence lawyer Jonas Zimba from Makebi Zulu and Company, informed the court that his client could not take plea because they wanted to advise him on the route to take.
Ms Wushimanga has since adjourned the matter to July 18, 2014.