Kaunda hearing postponed

Lusaka - The former Zambian president, Mr Kenneth Kaunda, appeared in court yesterday to challenge his detention under emergency…

Lusaka - The former Zambian president, Mr Kenneth Kaunda, appeared in court yesterday to challenge his detention under emergency laws, but the hearing was postponed until Friday after his lawyer collapsed and was taken to hospital.

Earlier, another of Mr Kaunda's lawyers told the court the veteran statesman, who has gone on hunger strike, had been subjected to psychological torture since his arrest.

A haggard Mr Kaunda, who was arrested on Christmas Day, said he was suffering severe physical discomfort in prison.

Hundreds of Kaunda supporters gathered outside the courtroom waving anti-government banners and shouting slogans against President Frederick Chiluba.