CONSOLIDATED REPORT ON THE CURRENT SITUATION OF COLLEAGUES DETAINED IN MONGU
Background
Following our visit to Mongu, we sought to understand the circumstances surrounding the continued detention of our colleagues, including IDC Comedy, Chester, Felix and 14 others who are currently being held at the correctional facility in Mongu.
The purpose of the visit was not to interfere with the legal process or to make conclusions on matters before the relevant authorities. Rather, it was to establish the current situation, understand what has happened, and provide an update to colleagues, families, the creative community and members of the public who may be concerned about their welfare.
Current Situation
From the information gathered during our visit, the colleagues were initially taken into custody following allegations relating to misconduct. The matter has since progressed, with the charge understood to be riotous behaviour, a matter which, as we understand it, is bailable.
The case docket was submitted by the Police to the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) for consideration. We understand that the docket was subsequently returned to the Police with the matter still awaiting the necessary direction or clearance from the prosecuting authority.
At the time of our visit, the colleagues remained in custody while awaiting further action on the matter. We understand that, once the necessary direction is given by the NPA, they are expected to appear before the courts, potentially within this week.
Our Understanding
It is important to emphasize that this report is not intended to determine whether anyone is guilty or innocent. Those matters remain within the mandate of the courts and the relevant legal institutions.
Our findings simply indicate that the matter is progressing through the established legal process and that the colleagues are awaiting the next stage of that process. We therefore encourage the public and all concerned parties to allow the Police, the NPA and the courts to carry out their respective responsibilities without unnecessary pressure or speculation.
At the same time, because these are members of the creative community who are currently separated from their families and colleagues, we believe it is important that their welfare continues to receive attention while the legal process takes its course.
Conclusion
Our visit has now come to an end, and we leave Mongu hopeful that there will be progress in the matter and that the necessary legal processes will be concluded without unnecessary delay.
We share this report simply to update our communities, colleagues and members of the public who have been asking what is happening. This is not intended to embarrass any institution or interfere with the work of the authorities. It is an effort to provide a balanced understanding of the situation as we found it.
For those who may feel that the matter is complicated, our understanding is that it is ultimately a legal process that must now take its proper course. We therefore remain hopeful that the relevant authorities will provide the necessary direction and that the colleagues will have an opportunity to have their matter heard before a competent court.
As we depart, we wish IDC Comedy, Chester, Felix and all the other colleagues currently in custody strength and comfort during this difficult period. We also extend our thoughts to their families, friends and fellow creatives who continue to stand with them.
We pray for God’s comfort, protection and guidance during this trying moment, and we remain hopeful for a positive and lawful resolution.
Source: MR COSMAS NG’ANDWE