Zambia Corruption Case: Presidential Gulfstream Jet Admitted as Key Evidence
In a major development in a USD573.9 million corruption trial, a Zambian court has admitted the country’s Gulfstream Aerospace presidential jet, G650 AF001 (msn 6335), as evidence. The case, being heard at Lusaka Magistrates Court, involves former permanent defence ministry secretary Stardy Mwale alongside five other high-profile defendants, including ex-defence secretary Michael Obister Mbewe and former defence ministry staff Frank Sinyangwe, Esabel Willima Chinji, Evaristo Sakala, and John Phiri.
The controversial Gulfstream jet has emerged as a pivotal piece of evidence in the trial, which centers on alleged violations of procurement laws. The aircraft’s inclusion underscores the gravity of the case, which has attracted significant attention given the involvement of senior public officials. Earlier in November 2024, the court denied a request for site visits to several Zambian Air Force facilities in Lusaka, Ndola Peter Zuze AFB, and Livingstone. The request was made by former defence ministry procurement director Charles Lungu, who was deemed unqualified to identify materials related to the jet at those facilities. Lungu had admitted to signing invoices for the aircraft’s procurement without full knowledge of the underlying contract.
Mwale, who was arrested by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) in December 2022, faces a series of serious charges. These include failing to adhere to proper procurement procedures for a USD400 million tender awarded to Israeli contractor Elbit Systems in 2017, unlawfully altering a USD123.9 million contract in 2019, and facilitating a fraudulent payment of USD50 million to Elbit. In addition to these charges, the Economic and Financial Crimes Court has ordered the forfeiture of a farm allegedly acquired illicitly by Mwale in 2019 for USD2.5 million, as part of the wider investigation into a USD47 million supply contract for the Ministry of Defence.
This high-profile case highlights longstanding concerns over procurement practices and corruption within key government sectors. The admission of the presidential jet as evidence further intensifies the spotlight on the case, suggesting that tangible assets are being scrutinized to build a strong legal argument against the accused officials.
As the trial unfolds, industry observers and the public alike are watching closely, with many expecting further revelations about the procurement irregularities and potential misuse of public funds. The case not only raises questions about accountability at the highest levels of government but also underscores the broader challenges facing Zambia’s public procurement system.
With the corruption case already drawing international attention, the legal proceedings and the evidence presented, including the controversial Gulfstream jet, could have significant implications for the country’s fight against corruption. The outcome of the trial is expected to serve as a stern reminder to public officials and government agencies regarding transparency and accountability in procurement processes.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com