On 5 August 2026, Zambian police reportedly arrested musicians, a comedian and political supporters in the Mongu/Kalabo area in Western Province, in connection with alleged conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace. Those reportedly arrested included musician Moses Ng’andwe, popularly known as Chester; Felix Ndangeni Inshila; and comedian Winston Ngosa, popularly known as IDC Light Comedy.
The reported arrests occurred in the lead-up to Zambia’s 13 August 2026 General Election and involved public personalities reportedly associated with political activities and mobilization for the opposition party, the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP), in the area. The circumstances have raised concerns regarding the exercise of freedom of expression and political participation during a sensitive electoral period.
The Comedy Association of Zambia and the Zambia Music Association have confirmed the arrests of their respective members and have called for their release. The associations’ confirmation further corroborates the reported arrests and highlights concerns within the creative sector about how artists are treated during the electoral period.