Mkushi Magistrate Felix Lukonde has expressed concern over the apparent lack of family support for a 47-year-old woman with a history of mental health challenges. Beatrice Chewe is accused of assaulting Bertha Kangwa and has been charged with one count of assault occasioning…

Mkushi Magistrate Felix Lukonde has expressed concern over the apparent lack of family support for a 47-year-old woman with a history of mental health challenges.

Beatrice Chewe is accused of assaulting Bertha Kangwa and has been charged with one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, contrary to Section 250 of the Penal Code Act, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.

 She has pleaded not guilty to the charge.

During the court proceedings, Magistrate Lukonde expressed concern that Chewe’s siblings and daughters had reportedly not attended court to support her since the matter began.

He said the woman had not chosen her condition and deserved care and support from her family.

“She did not want or choose to be in this condition,” Magistrate Lukonde said.

The court heard that a mental state examination conducted on Chewe indicated that she had a mild mental health problem and also reportedly to have suffered postpartum psychosis many years ago.

Ms Chewe, who is reportedly homeless and sleeps at the market, told the court that she owns a house in the Kawama area of Mkushi District.

The court also heard that she sometimes became violent.

Magistrate Lukonde questioned the apparent absence of her relatives, saying she had been alone throughout the proceedings.

He urged families to look after their vulnerable relatives, emphasising the importance of compassion and collective responsibility.

“We are a family, and families should look out for each other,” he said.

Magistrate Lukonde has acknowledged the Department of Social Welfare’s effort of contacting one of Chewe’s brothers to establish family support

The magistrate’s remarks highlighted concerns about the welfare of vulnerable people and the importance of family involvement in ensuring they receive appropriate care and support.

The matter has been adjourned to 4th November, 2026.

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