ZAMBIA: SOLWEZI FARMER SENTENCED TO DEATH

June 8, 2012: In Zambia, a Solwezi emerging farmer has been sentenced to death by hanging for killing his friend over a sweet traditional brew commonly known as ‘Munkoyo.’
High Court Judge Isaac Chali sentenced to death Willard Munsaki, for killing Ronald Sendeki, 25, after hitting him twice on the head with a stool.
Munsaki used a heavy object to strike Mr Sendeki and that his actions were intended to cause death or grievous harm.
The judge said ‘Munkoyo’ was not so potent as to deprive those consuming it with the sense of self-control and that it was usually taken as food.
Mr Justice Chali also rejected claims by the accused person that he was provoked and stated that the element of malice aforethought had been established beyond reasonable doubt.
A witness, Marlon Wakupela said he was drinking Munkoyo when Mr Sendeki asked him to buy him a drink as well.
He informed Mr Sendeki that he could only buy him a drink after settling his bill.
Mr Sendeki left to go and play music at a nearby place, but while he was on the musical system, Munsaki from nowhere picked a stool and started hitting him on the forehead.
When he realised that Mr Sendeki had died, Munsaki ran away and was only apprehended by on-lookers who took him to the police station.
In defence, Munsaki said he was provoked. (Sources: times.co.zm, 08/06/2012)