High Court Orders Police to Produce Detained Journalist McPherson Mukuka

The Lusaka High Court has ordered the Zambia Police Service to produce detained ZNBC journalist McPherson Mukuka before the court on Thursday, 30 July 2026, at 09:30 hours, following an application challenging the legality of his continued detention.

High Court Judge Elita Mwikisa issued a writ of habeas corpus, directing the State, through the police, to bring Mr Mukuka before the court without fail.

The order follows concerns raised over the journalist's continued detention after he was arrested on 17 July 2026 and later charged with a cybercrime-related offence.

Mr Mukuka's lawyers, Malisa Partners, filed the application in the High Court on 23 July 2026, arguing that the court should review the legality of his continued detention after he was not granted police bond.

In her ruling, Judge Mwikisa warned that Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha and Inspector General of Police Graphel Musamba could face contempt proceedings if the court order is not complied with.

Mr Mukuka has been charged with one count of prohibition of recording a private conversation without prior notice, contrary to Section 10 of the Cyber Crimes Act No. 4 of 2025.

According to the charge, it is alleged that between 14 and 17 July 2026, Mr Mukuka used a Facebook page to publish an article containing an audio recording of a private meeting involving several individuals.