ACC Confirms Stardy Mwale Probe

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has confirmed that it last week summoned the Former Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Stardy Mwale for questioning. Mwale was recently transferred to Cabinet Office by President Edgar Lungu.

Responding to a query from News Diggers ACC Public Relations Manager Timothy Moono is quoted as stating, “I wish to acknowledge receipt of your press query in which you wish to find out whether the Commission summoned the Former Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Stardy Mwale for questioning. In response to your query, I wish to confirm that the Commission did summon the Former Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Stardy Mwale today, to assist with an investigation.”

However, Moono declined to reveal any further details out of concern that it could jeopardise investigations.

News Diggers have previously published an investigation in which it was alleged that Mwale owned a multi-million kwacha farm bordering Nickel Mine near Mazabuka and another 700-hectare farm in Mkushi, among other high-end properties. According to the outlet’s sources Mwale also owned over 1,000 cows at the Mkushi farm.

When questioned about the scale and source of his wealth by Diggers Mwale has stated that it is not his duty to explain such matters.

“The best you could have done is go to Mkushi and verify the farm. But after you have written you are asking me; what should I answer? When you hear such stories, call me before you write. After you have written, why do you want me to explain? When you write like that, other people are following and at the end of the day, they will know that this paper is all about lies! So, about me owning those farms, people will know, there is a system there. You have exposed that I have these farms; it is not my duty to explain to you,” Mwale has been quoted as stating.