President Hichilema Did Not Grant Immunity To Milingo Lungu – Justice Minister

Justice Minister Mulambo Haimbe has confirmed that President Hakainde Hichilema did not grant immunity to former Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) liquidator Milingo Lungu, defying reports that had previously circulated in the media.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday, Mr Haimbe addressed concerns around the decision by Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Lilian Siyunyi not to prosecute Milingo Lungu and confirmed that the president had not struck a deal for the former liquidator’s immunity.

“We wish to end all public speculation which suggests that the presidency has interfered in the DPP’s functions in any way including by issuing instructions to grant immunity to any persons facing criminal proceedings in Zambia,” he said.

The justice minister also explained that, under the constitution, the DPP enjoys total independence in her work and that the government is unable to direct her actions. 

“Contrary to speculations that have taken hold in the public to the effect that his exellency the president can direct the DPP in the exercise of her functions, the converse is actually true,” he clarified. 

Speaking afterwards, Presidential Spokesperson Anthony Bwalya said the government was doing its best to serve the people of Zambia and was not reneging on its promises to fight corruption.

Mr Bwalya said there are no sacred cows in the fight against corruption and pledged that the government would always do its utmost within the confines of the law.