Zambia’s Ongoing High-Profile Corruption Cases
In a series of ongoing investigations and legal proceedings, Zambia’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has been making substantial strides in addressing corruption and irregularities within the country. Several high-profile cases have caught the public’s attention, and this update covers the latest developments in these cases as of October 25, 2023 according to ACC.
Margaret Chisela Musonda, also known as Faith Musonda, was arrested by the ACC on suspicion of possessing properties worth over K17 million, believed to be proceeds of crime. Recent updates reveal that investigations have been concluded, but the ACC’s Legal Department is reviewing additional discoveries before deciding on the next course of action.
The ACC is nearing the end of its investigations into allegations of corruption against Ministry of Finance officials and will soon advise on the next steps.
The ACC continues its active investigation into the cancellation of 19 hunting blocks by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Mr. Evans Muhanga.
Former Tourism Minister Ronald Chitotela’s case, involving two charges of possessing property suspected to be proceeds of crime, awaits a judgment from the Court of Appeal.
Former Minister of Gender Elizabeth Phiri’s property in the Silverest area remains seized by the ACC after her challenge was dismissed in the High Court in February.
The Commission has initiated non-conviction-based forfeiture proceedings against former Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Stardy Mwale. The matter is scheduled for a hearing on November 15, 2023.
Stardy Mwale, a former Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary, and Clever Mpoha, Director and Shareholder of Savenda Group of Companies, are facing trial for Corrupt Practices by Public and Private Officers in a case related to the purchase of military uniforms for Zambia National Service (ZNS).
Trial proceedings are ongoing before the Fast Track Court in a case involving the arrest of Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Former Chief Executive Officer Mateyo Kaluba, Zambia National Service (ZNS) Director of Operations Maliwa Muwanei, and businessman Ackson Tembo for the illegal exportation of Mukula logs.
Former Lusaka Province Minister Bowman Lusambo and his wife are facing charges of possessing property suspected to be proceeds of crime worth $378,000. Their case is currently before the Fast Track Court.
Bowman Lusambo challenged the seizure of properties worth 22.8 million Kwacha located in Lusaka’s Chamba Valley area. The Subordinate Court set aside his challenge, and the properties remain seized by the ACC.
Investigations are ongoing regarding allegations of corruption in the procurement of fertilizer worth $50 million by the government using Alpha Commodities Zambia Limited.
The Commission has initiated investigations into allegations of corruption in the irregular awarding of a contract for the supply of diesel and cleaning of the TAZAMA pipeline to Agro Fuels by the Ministry of Energy.
Former Secretary to the Treasury Fredson Yamba and five others are charged with wilful failure to follow applicable procedure. The trial continues for the accused, with the next court date set for October 30, 2023.
Investigations are ongoing in a case involving 17 officers from Solwezi Municipal Council suspended over alleged misappropriation of council funds. Through administrative means, K163,000 has been recovered so far.
ACC arrested North-western Water Supply and Sanitation (NWWSS) Managing Director, Happy Musumali, and Director of Engineering, Chanda Mulenga, for willful failure to follow procedure in the management of a contract and obtaining money by false pretense. Investigations have been concluded, and the next course of action is pending determination.
These cases reflect the ACC’s commitment to addressing corruption and irregularities in Zambia, and the public continues to await the outcomes of these significant legal proceedings.
