ACC Clears Copperbelt Minister Matambo & Kawana
The Anti-Corruption Commission has cleared Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo of corruption allegations, saying high-value vehicles previously linked to him belonged to someone else who was using his parking yard.
ACC Director General Daphne Chabu said investigations established that the vehicles were not the Minister's property, and the matter has now been closed.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, Ms Chabu also confirmed that no other Cabinet Ministers are currently under investigation, adding that the Commission had only investigated Minister Matambo and Information Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana, both of whom have been cleared.
The ACC boss disclosed that investigations into Solicitor General Marshal Muchende's alleged abuse of office have been concluded, with no evidence of bribery found.
The Commission has also closed a corruption case involving Zambia Army officials and DLS International Limited of Kenya concerning a $21.2 million contract for military equipment.
Ms Chabu said investigations established that the equipment was supplied and received by the Ministry of Defence, and the upgrade of Maina Soko Military Hospital is at 95 percent completion.
Through conviction-based and non-conviction-based forfeiture proceedings, the ACC has forfeited significant assets to the State, including $390,350 in cash, K41.4 million in local currency, and landed properties worth K34.2 million.
During the review period, 153 cases were before the courts—122 criminal cases and 31 civil cases. The Commission secured 16 convictions and eight acquittals.
Asked about other Ministers under investigation, Ms Chabu explained that the ACC receives an average of 50 complaints weekly, but not all lead to formal cases.
"It is not prudent for the Anti-Corruption Commission to disclose who they are investigating," she said, noting that premature disclosure could ruin people's reputations when no case exists.
The ACC urged members of the public to continue reporting suspected corrupt practices through available platforms, including the Online Anonymous Whistleblower System.