By Francis Chipalo
Zambia Wake-up Party (ZAWAPA) national youth chairperson, Henry Musonda has welcomed the decision made by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to appeal the acquittal of the Livingstone mayor from corruption charges.
Musonda state that the action is a necessary step in ensuring that justice is not only done, but also seen to be done.
In a statement, Musonda expresses concern that corruption remains one of the greatest threats to Zambia’s democracy, economic development, and social cohesion, saying every allegation must be treated with seriousness and impartiality.
“We caution that the appeal process must not be used as a political tool,” he said.
Musonda claims that the Zambian people have witnessed, under the UPND government, a pattern of selective convictions that appear to target certain individuals, while others are shielded from accountability.
“Such practices erode public trust in the justice system and create the perception that anti-corruption efforts are driven more by political expediency than by genuine commitment to the rule of law,” he said.
Musonda advises that justice should not be applied selectively, nor should it be manipulated to gain sympathy votes or political mileage.
He said the ACC must demonstrate independence and professionalism by ensuring that its actions are guided by evidence, fairness, and respect for due process.
“We further call upon the Government of Zambia to strengthen institutions tasked with fighting corruption, to provide them with the necessary resources, and to guarantee their autonomy from political interference. Only through impartial justice can Zambia build a society where accountability is upheld and where citizens can trust that the law applies equally to all, regardless of political affiliation or social standing,” he added.
Livingstone Mayor Constance Muleabai was acquitted of corruption charges earlier this month, sparking mixed reactions in society.
The civic leader was accused of soliciting K120,000 and receiving K180,000 as an inducement to cancel property rates owed to the Livingstone City Council.
The court ruled that the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) failed to provide sufficient evidence to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. The ACC and Director of Public Prosecutions are appealing the acquittal.
The case had been ongoing since 2023, with Muleabai maintaining her innocence throughout. The acquittal has sparked political celebration and raised questions about the ACC’s investigative procedure.
