President Lungu Denies Allegations of Property Ownership in Eswatini, Criticizes Minister’s Challenge
In response to recent allegations outlined in the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) report titled “Swazi Secrets – a glimpse inside the tiny Kingdom,” former Zambian President Edgar C. Lungu has vehemently denied accusations of property ownership in Eswatini.
The report, which surfaced in local tabloids, prompted Zambia’s Minister of Housing and Infrastructure, Mr. Charles Milupi, to challenge Lungu to clarify the source of funds for his alleged investments in Eswatini. Lungu, however, refuted these claims, labeling them as “unverified information, innuendos, and utter lies.”
Addressing the specific allegation of owning a luxurious property in Eswatini, Lungu clarified that during an official visit to the Kingdom in 2018, King Mswati III offered him a plot of land in a gated golf estate.
While grateful for the gesture, Lungu opted not to accept the offer due to controversy surrounding undeclared gifts. He emphasized that he never acquired any property in Eswatini and chose to remain silent out of respect for King Mswati III.
Lungu expressed disappointment in Minister Milupi’s challenge, suggesting that the Zambian government could easily verify the truth instead of resorting to baseless accusations. He criticized the government for engaging in what he described as a campaign to tarnish his reputation.
Furthermore, Lungu defended Zambian businessman Michelo Shakantu, dismissing allegations of misconduct and asserting that Shakantu’s company, Inyatsi, has conducted business in Zambia for decades, spanning multiple presidential administrations.
Lungu’s response underscores his denial of the allegations and his frustration with what he perceives as politically motivated attacks on his character. As Zambia transitions into a new political era, controversies surrounding past leaders continue to emerge, highlighting the complexities of governance and accountability.
