Patriotic Front member Mwewa Chilufya queries Livingstone Mayor Ms. Constance Muleabai, Judgment

….raises governance concerns

By Chali Mulenga
Livingstone

A Patriotic Front (PF) member, Mr Mwewa Chilufya has queried the recent court judgment involving United Party for National Development (UPND) Livingstone Mayor Ms. Constance Muleabai, warning that perceived selective justice, rising electricity tariffs and alleged political harassment could undermine public confidence in governance and public institutions.

Speaking in Livingstone, Mr. Chilufya, who described himself as an ordinary PF member without any official position, said the judgment had raised serious concerns among members of the public.

“We must address what I describe as the elephant in the room — the judgment involving the Livingstone Mayor, Ms Muleabai,” Chilufya said.

Chilufya warned that continued allegations of corruption involving public officials, if not conclusively addressed, risk eroding confidence in the ruling UPND.

“Actions such as these are making people lose confidence in the UPND. How do you explain a situation where corruption is established, yet those involved appear to enjoy protection?” Chilufya asked.

Chilufya said shielding officials implicated in corruption sends the wrong signal to citizens and investors alike, adding that confidence in public institutions was at risk.

Chilufya pointed to what he described as inconsistencies in the administration of justice, citing differences in how cases involving public figures and criminal suspects are handled.

Chilufya referred to a case involving Lusaka Archbishop Dr Alick Banda, who reportedly received and declared a vehicle from a Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) employee without facing sanctions, as well as disparities in bail conditions granted in different criminal cases.

“These inconsistencies raise serious questions about fairness and equality before the law,” Chilufya said.

The PF member also raised concern over the rising cost of electricity, saying high tariffs were placing an increasing burden on ordinary households.

“Electricity has become expensive and the pressure is being felt mostly by ordinary citizens,” Chilufya said.

Chilufya alleged continued harassment of PF president Mr. Given Lubinda, which he said pointed to political interference in political processes.

Chilufya urged the judiciary to uphold its constitutional mandate and safeguard the integrity of the country, stating that courts should contribute to strengthening accountability and public trust.

Chilufya called on Zambians to closely scrutinise governance practices, warning that selective justice and corruption could weaken confidence in democratic institutions.