Lusaka, Zambia – April 2026 – The Lusaka High Court has sentenced a Lusaka youth to 10 years imprisonment after he was found guilty of attempting to have sexual intercourse with his biological mother, a case the court described as unacceptable and shameful.
The convict, Fanizani Phiri, of Zingalume Township, was sentenced to 10 years simple imprisonment after the High Court upheld the conviction entered by the lower court for the offence of attempted incest.
Offence Committed on Christmas Day
According to court records, Phiri committed the offence on December 25, 2023.
He was 22 years old at the time he was convicted last year.
Phiri had pleaded not guilty to the charge, but the court found sufficient evidence proving his involvement in the disturbing act.
Court Found Overwhelming Evidence
The conviction was based on findings by Subordinate Court Magistrate Mutinta Mwenya, who ruled that there was overwhelming evidence showing that Phiri knew the complainant was his biological mother, but still attempted to engage in a sexual act with her.
High Court Describes Offence as Heinous
In delivering judgment, Lusaka High Court Judge Kazimbe Chenda described the offence as heinous and deeply reprehensible, stating that it strikes at the foundation of family trust and societal morality.
“It violates the natural bonds of relationship, exploits positions of trust and authority, and causes enduring physical, emotional and psychological harm to the victim,” Justice Chenda said.
The Judge noted that such conduct is particularly damaging because it occurs within the family unit, which society relies on as a place of protection and care.
10-Year Sentence Confirmed
Following the ruling, the High Court sentenced Phiri to 10 years imprisonment, stating that the punishment was necessary given the seriousness of the offence.
The case has sparked public outrage, with many describing it as one of the most shameful incidents involving incest-related crimes in Lusaka.
Source: Zambia Daily Mail