MAKEBI ZULU LOSES CONFIDENCE IN SAKWIBA SIKOTA AS QUESTIONS EMERGE OVER TREASON DEFENCE.
Fresh questions have emerged over the legal defence of Toonse Pamodzi Alliance presidential running mate Makebi Zulu following reports that he has lost confidence in his lawyer, State Counsel Sakwiba Sikota.
According to information obtained by Zambian Watch, Mr Zulu is unhappy with the direction of his legal representation, with sources suggesting that disagreements have developed over what he considers the priorities of his defence.
A source familiar with the matter claims that Mr Zulu became increasingly frustrated after Counsel Sikota allegedly raised concerns about food for his clients while they remained in custody, instead of focusing on what Mr Zulu believes should be the central issues surrounding their prosecution.
“He is facing a serious charge of treason. But, as you know, Makebi Zulu was never found at Mundubile’s residence. What is surprising him is that Counsel Sakwiba Sikota started complaining about them not eating instead of talking about the injustice they are facing,” the source said.
Zambian Watch has further been informed that Mr Zulu is concerned that his interests may not be adequately protected and fears that he could be left politically and legally exposed as the case progresses.
A source close to him claims that his immediate concern is finding a way to secure his own release, particularly given the seriousness of the treason charge.
“Makebi is more concerned about getting himself off the hook. He knows the State wants him at all cost because of the Edgar Chagwa Lungu burial saga, and he is taking this very seriously. He opted to represent himself because he no longer has confidence in Sakwiba Sikota,” the source alleged.
His reported decision to represent himself therefore raises further questions about the strategy behind his defence and whether the disagreements with his lawyer have reached a point where professional legal representation is no longer acceptable to him.
But there is another important question that remains unanswered; Is this simply a disagreement over legal strategy, or is there a deeper breakdown of trust between the two?
As the treason proceedings continue, the public will be watching closely to see how Mr Zulu approaches his defence and whether the reported fallout with his lawyer will have any bearing on the case.
Zambian Watch.