Mambwe Zimba, the Secretary General of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Zambia, was arrested for allegedly posting a digitally altered image on Facebook that depicted President Hakainde Hichilema in a casket. This act sparked controversy as the image falsely suggested the president's death, which has not been reported by the media or confirmed by the government. The arrest highlights the potential legal repercussions for disseminating misinformation, particularly concerning public figures and authorities.

The image, which surfaced from Lusaka, stirred panic and raised concerns over its implications in a politically sensitive environment. As Zimba is identified as one of the administrators of the Facebook page "Zambia for all 2026," the incident brings to light the responsibilities and risks associated with social media management in a volatile political landscape. Local reports indicate that Zimba is currently in custody as the investigation continues, highlighting the seriousness with which such allegations are treated in Zambian society.

This event underscores the broader issue of misinformation and fake news in the digital age, particularly in Africa where political tensions often manifest online. The Zambian government's stance on such incidents could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, affecting both political expression and the boundaries of free speech, especially on social media platforms.