Joseph Malanji
The Lusaka Magistrate Court has delivered a landmark ruling in Zambia’s fight against corruption, sentencing two former senior government officials to prison in a case that has gripped the nation. Former Foreign Affairs Minister Joseph Malanji has been jailed for four years with hard labour, while former Secretary to the Treasury Fredson Yamba will serve three years with hard labour. Acting Chief Resident Magistrate Irene Wishimanga delivered the judgment, describing the offences as grave and a betrayal of public trust.
The charges stemmed from the controversial transfer of K108 million to Zambia’s mission in Turkey during Yamba’s tenure. Prosecutors argued that the release of funds violated budgetary procedures and parliamentary oversight, while Malanji was accused of abusing his political position to acquire helicopters, luxury properties, and a hotel, allegedly using proceeds of crime. The court ruled that both men acted outside the law and deliberately concealed ownership of assets, justifying custodial sentences as both punishment and deterrence.
Civil society organisations and governance watchdogs have hailed the ruling as a milestone for President Hakainde Hichilema’s anti-corruption campaign. Government spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa said the verdict proved that no one is above the law and that Zambia’s institutions are regaining their strength. However, the opposition Patriotic Front insists the case is politically motivated, with acting party president Given Lubinda warning that PF members are being targeted by the current administration.
Public reaction has been sharply divided. Many Zambians welcomed the rare conviction of powerful figures, while others cautioned that without consistent application of justice across political divides, the anti-corruption fight risks being dismissed as selective. Focus is now shifting to asset forfeiture, with Malanji’s helicopters and properties already under seizure orders and expected to be handed over to the state. Analysts argue that asset recovery and reinvestment into public services will be the true test of whether courtroom victories translate into real accountability.
The sentencing of Malanji and Yamba is more than just the punishment of two individuals—it is a defining moment for Zambia’s governance and a clear signal that abuse of office will no longer go unpunished. Whether this judgment marks a genuine turning point will depend on how consistently and impartially the fight against corruption is carried forward.
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