Zambian authorities announced Wednesday the arrest of fugitive parliamentarian Emmanuel “Jay Jay” Banda in Zimbabwe, ending a months-long manhunt that began with his alleged escape through a hospital window while facing robbery charges.
Home Affairs Minister Jack Mwiimbu confirmed Banda’s capture in a Harare apartment, where Zimbabwean police found the lawmaker who had evaded authorities since August. His escape from Chipata Central Hospital, where he was under police and prison guard, had prompted Zambian authorities to issue a 2 million kwacha ($72,000) bounty.
The case has intensified political tensions in Zambia, with opposition figures claiming persecution of allies connected to former President Edgar Lungu. Banda, an independent MP since 2021 with previous ties to Lungu, faces charges of aggravated robbery involving property worth 12,000 kwacha ($430) from 2015, allegations he denies.
“We are urging the Zambian government that they should not join other African countries that are known to go to other jurisdictions and pick and extract a citizen they are looking for committing crimes,” Patriotic Front spokesman Emmanuel Mwamba told the BBC, characterizing the arrest as an “abduction” requiring proper extradition protocols.
The arrest follows a complex series of events beginning in May when Banda reportedly disappeared, claiming abduction upon his reappearance. That incident led to the arrest of three opposition politicians and a civil rights activist, with some accusing the state of orchestrating the alleged kidnapping – charges the government denied.
Mwiimbu rejected suggestions of political motivation behind the prosecution, noting the charges predated Banda’s parliamentary service. “As a sitting member of parliament, we expect Mr Banda to uphold respect for Zambia’s justice system and rule of law,” he said in a statement to the BBC.
Interpol’s Harare office confirmed Banda’s custody and has requested extradition documentation. During preliminary questioning, Banda reportedly denied the charges, claiming persecution due to his connections with former President Lungu. Zambian police indicated they are preparing the necessary extradition papers.
The government expressed particular interest in investigating who facilitated Banda’s escape and subsequent visits by his wife to Harare. Minister Mwiimbu acknowledged Zimbabwe’s cooperation in the case, while opposition leaders warned of an “emerging and worrying scenario” in Zambian politics.
