The Mazabuka Local Court in Zambia has ordered a fisherman to pay a named trader K2,500, for defamation.

This is in a matter where Elijah Chama, 33, of Bundula Fishing Camp in Mazabuka was sued by Esther Mvula, 21, of Apolo Compound for saying she stole fish, thereby defaming her reputation.

It is reported that the plaintiff is a fishmonger who conducts her trade in different locations which include Bundula, Lusaka as well as Nakambala Market in Mazabuka.

The Court heard that on 18th April, 2024, Chama called Mvula a thief after she had taken his box of fish which was destined for Lusaka and sold it at Nakambala Market without asking him.

Chama denied calling the complainant a thief, stating that he just wanted his fish back because he was to sell it in Lusaka for K5,500.

When the two at a later time discussed the matter of having Chama compensated for his box of fish, Mvula paid him K4000.

In passing judgement on the defamation suit, the Court ordered that Chama pays Mvula a fine of K2,500, with the first instalment of K1,000 to be paid on 28th June, 2024 and subsequent portions of K500 in the following months until the whole amount is cleared.