‘Brian Mundubile and  Makebi Zulu are not coming out of prison anytime soon.they will be in prison for a long time’- Gilbert Liswaniso

The political landscape in Zambia has witnessed a fresh surge of friction following remarks by United Party for National Development (UPND) National Youth Chairman Gilbert Liswaniso concerning high-profile opposition figures Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu. Speaking on current political developments, Mr. Liswaniso boldly claimed that the prominent opposition figures would not be securing their release from custody anytime soon, suggesting they face a prolonged period behind bars. The comments have drawn sharp reactions from various stakeholders, laying bare the deep divisions characterizing the nation's political sphere. Mr. Liswaniso, known for his unvarnished delivery and ardent defense of the ruling administration, maintained that legal processes running their course against figures aligned with the opposition are justified. His assertions underline the aggressive posture often adopted by political youth leaders in Zambia, who frequently serve as the vanguard for public signaling and political sparring. Legal and political analysts have expressed concern over statements from partisan figures predicting the outcomes or durations of judicial processes. Such pronouncements, critics argue, risk blurring the lines between executive actions, political rhetoric, and the independence of the judiciary. In a democratic dispensation like Zambia's, the fate of individuals facing trial or detention rests strictly within the purview of the courts, making public commentary from political actors regarding prison terms a sensitive subject that routinely invites public debate about the separation of powers. The detention of opposition figures such as Mundubile and Zulu—prominent voices within the political opposition alliance—has continuously dominated national headlines. Civil society organizations have repeatedly urged restraint from all political camps, calling for a strict adherence to the rule of law and constitutional guarantees. They argue that political rhetoric must n