A PATRIOTIC Front ward councilor from Kabushi Constituency found himself in the Ndola Magistrate Court, facing charges of dangerous driving after admitting to driving on the opposite lane to bypass traffic.
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James Banda, the Kafubu Ward councilor recently pleaded guilty before Magistrate Brian Simachela, on one count of dangerous driving.
The prosecution alleged that on June 21, 2025, Banda endangered the lives of other motorists and road users by driving against oncoming traffic to avoid congestion.
Banda defended his action, claiming a Zambia Police traffic officer instructed him to use the opposite lane.
“Your honour, I admit driving on the opposite lane; it was because I was told by a traffic officer to go ahead, and on the charge, it was written ‘on highway,’ which is not true,” Banda told the court.
He appealed for leniency, promising never to repeat the mistake.
Magistrate Simachela reminded Banda of his duties as a civic leader, to conduct himself in an orderly manner on the road.
He warned the councilor that any future similar offenses would result in a stiffer punishment without leniency.
Magistrate Simachela fined Banda K1,000, to be paid within seven days.
Failure to pay the fine will result in a nine-month simple imprisonment sentence.
By Noel Iyombwa
Kalemba July 1, 2025
