1. Zambian former first lady arrested for fraud charges
2. Ex-first lady of Zambia arrested on fraud allegations.
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The former First Lady of Zambia, Esther Lungu, and her daughter, Chiyeso Katete, have been arrested in the capital city of Lusaka on suspicion of possessing properties believed to be proceeds of crime. Another close relative, Charles Phiri, was also arrested in connection with the case.
According to the state anti-drug agency, Ms Lungu was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for the acquisition of a $30,000 (£24,000) estate in Lusaka. Former President Edgar Lungu has stated that the family intends to challenge the charges in court.
Allegations of Political Victimization
Former President Lungu has accused the government of targeting him and members of his Patriotic Front (PF) party to prevent his potential return to politics in the 2026 elections. He recently claimed to have been placed under house arrest due to his increased political activities, although the government has denied this allegation.
Last September, Esther Lungu was arrested on corruption charges related to the theft of motor vehicles and title deeds, which she denied. The recent arrest of Ms Lungu, aged 66, is linked to the suspected fraudulent acquisition of a luxurious real estate comprising 15 white double-storey flats in Lusaka’s Chongwe town.
Additional Charges for Chiyeso Katete
Chiyeso Katete, the daughter of Esther Lungu, faces additional charges of acquiring three flats in Lusaka through fraudulent means. The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has also accused her of possessing a high-cost house, four chicken runs, and associated external works on the property.
Following their arrest, Esther Lungu, Chiyeso Katete, and Charles Phiri were released on bond after being questioned by DEC officials. Another daughter of Ms Lungu, Tasila, has been instructed to appear at the DEC on Monday to address separate but related charges.
Challenges in Court
While the accused individuals have not commented on the allegations, former President Lungu has affirmed that the family will contest the charges in court. The timing of their court appearance remains uncertain.
Mr Lungu, who announced his intention to re-enter politics last October, faced repercussions from the government, including the withdrawal of his retirement benefits. He stepped down from office after losing the presidency to Hakainde Hichilema in 2021, leaving Zambia in a state of significant debt and economic instability.
Anti-Corruption Campaign
President Hichilema has initiated an anti-corruption campaign to address alleged looting of resources during Mr Lungu’s tenure. Several former ministers, government officials, and members of the Lungu family have come under scrutiny by Zambia’s investigative agencies.
President Hichilema has pledged to recover embezzled funds and hold accountable those responsible for corruption. Critics of the anti-corruption drive argue that it is politically driven and aimed at undermining opposition figures.
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Zambian ex-first lady arrested fraud charges, long-tailed, Zambian ex-first lady arrested fraud charges, long-tailed.
