PF Demands Immediate Withdrawal of Judge Hamaundu’s Appointment Amid Corruption Allegations



The Patriotic Front (PF) has called on President Hakainde Hichilema to withdraw the appointment of Judge Evans Hamaundu as head of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) until allegations of corruption against him are thoroughly investigated and resolved.

Featuring on Diamond TV's  tamond live, PF Chairperson for Information Emmanuel Mwamba expressed shock and concern over the decision to appoint Judge Hamaundu despite unresolved complaints lodged against him at the Judicial Complaints Commission (JCC). Mwamba emphasized that the President’s decision undermines public confidence in the fight against corruption.

“There is still an active complaint against Justice Hamaundu at the JCC. Serious allegations of corruption have been raised, and these must be addressed before he can assume such a critical position,” Mwamba stated.

The allegations against Judge Hamaundu stem from a complaint filed by Misheck Chatora, the Managing Director of Maritime Freight and Forwarding Limited. Chatora accused Hamaundu, along with Supreme Court Judges Michael Musonda, Roydah Kaoma, and Nigel Mutuna, of delivering a fraudulent judgment in favor of Zambian Breweries in a case involving his company.

Chatora claimed that Judge Hamaundu initially assured him that Maritime Freight and Forwarding Limited had won the case but later delivered a judgment against his company. He further alleged that Hamaundu demanded a bribe of K20,000 during the proceedings.

In January 2024, the JCC recommended the removal of Judge Katenekwa following Chatora’s complaint. However, the cases involving Judge Hamaundu and the other judges remain unresolved.

Despite these unresolved allegations, President Hichilema has moved forward with the appointment of Judge Hamaundu as ACC Director-General, a move that has drawn widespread criticism. The PF argues that such a decision casts doubt on the President’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the justice system.

“How can someone accused of corruption be entrusted with leading the fight against it? This is a serious conflict of interest and risks eroding public trust in the ACC,” Mwamba questioned.

The PF has demanded that President Hichilema retract the appointment and ensure that the allegations against Judge Hamaundu are investigated thoroughly by the JCC. Mwamba warned that proceeding with the appointment without resolving these issues sets a dangerous precedent and undermines Zambia’s judiciary and governance structures.

“The President must act in the interest of justice and integrity. We cannot allow the fight against corruption to be led by individuals with unresolved allegations of misconduct,” he added.

The controversy surrounding Judge Hamaundu’s appointment has sparked debate among Zambians, with many questioning the criteria used for high-level appointments in the government. Civic organizations and legal experts have also weighed in, urging the President to prioritize integrity and accountability in public service.

As the nation waits for a response from State House, the pressure mounts for President Hichilema to address the concerns raised by the opposition and ensure that justice prevails in all matters concerning public officials.

The Anti-Corruption Commission plays a pivotal role in Zambia’s governance, tasked with investigating and prosecuting corruption cases. The appointment of its Director-General is therefore critical in maintaining the public’s trust in the institution. Critics argue that appointing individuals with unresolved allegations risks compromising the commission’s credibility and effectiveness.

The ball is now in President Hichilema’s court to demonstrate his government’s commitment to justice and accountability. The nation’s eyes are fixed on this unfolding controversy, which could have far-reaching implications for Zambia’s fight against corruption and the integrity of its judicial system.

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