Biggest opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema has dedicated the African Freedom Award to the Zambian people who prayed and stood with him in his 127 days incarceration.

In a James Bond style, The UPND torchbearer was abducted from his New Kasama Mansion before being charged with treason for obstructing President Edgar Lungu’s motorcade.

He was discharged from jail in national interest.

“To us, this  award is dedicated  to our fellow citizens who committed prayers and stood with us during our 127 days difficult times under incarceration in filthy detention centres for an offence we never commited.

He said the fight against human rights abuse has just began.

“We will continue demanding and championing freedoms and basic rights for our people as well as respect for the rule of law and order as we believe that is key to national development,” Hichilema said.

The UPND leader said it is an honour  for him to have been awarded the 2017 African Award.

“We are greatly honoured to have been nominated to be the guest speaker and recipient of this year’s African Freedom award ceremony hosted and presented by Friedrich Naumann Foundation in South Africa tomorrow Friday 27th October 2017,” Hichilema said.

At the annual event, the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom acknowledges individuals who have made an extraordinary contribution to the cause of Freedom in Africa.

After receiving the award, Hichilema will  present a paper on “The State of Freedom in Africa”.