Former Zambian First Lady Esther Lungu and Daughter Detained Over Alleged Fraud
Zambia’s former First Lady Esther Lungu and her daughter Chiyeso Katete have been detained for owning properties suspected to be proceeds of crime.
They were apprehended on Thursday in Lusaka, along with a relative named Charles Phiri, as per authorities.
Ms. Lungu could not provide a reasonable explanation for acquiring a $30,000 (£24,000) estate in Lusaka, according to the state anti-drug agency.
Former President Edgar Lungu stated the family would contest the charges in court.
He has accused the government of targeting him and members of his Patriotic Front (PF) party to prevent his political comeback ahead of the 2026 elections.
He also claimed to have been placed under house arrest due to his increased political activities, though the government denied this.
Last September, his wife faced arrest over corruption charges, including theft of motor vehicles and title deeds, which she denied.
On Thursday, Ms. Lungu, 66, was arrested for allegedly fraudulently acquiring a luxury property in Lusaka, as stated by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC).
The DEC reported that Ms. Lungu owned “15 white double-story flats” in Lusaka’s Chongwe town, suspected to be proceeds of crime.
The exact acquisition date of the property, co-owned with others, is unclear, but the DEC noted it was purchased between 2015 and 2023.
Her daughter faces additional charges for acquiring another three-flat estate in Lusaka, also suspected to have been bought fraudulently.
She was further arrested for owning a high-cost house, four chicken runs, and associated external works on the property, the agency said.
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They were all released on bond, Mr. Lungu said, adding that they were safe at home after being questioned by DEC officials for hours on Thursday.
Another daughter, Tasila, is facing related charges and has been summoned by the DEC to appear on Monday.
The accused did not comment on the allegations, but the former president stated they would challenge them in court.
It is not clear when they will appear in court.
Mr. Lungu announced his return to politics last October, leading the government to withdraw his retirement benefits.
He retired after losing the presidency to Hakainde Hichilema in 2021, leaving Zambia with significant debt and an unstable economy after six years in office.
Several former ministers, officials, and Mr. Lungu’s family members have been investigated in President Hichilema’s anti-corruption campaign.
Mr. Hichilema has committed to recovering resources allegedly stolen during Mr. Lungu’s administration.
Critics argue that the anti-corruption campaign is politically motivated.
Former Zambian First Lady Esther Lungu and Daughter Detained Over Alleged Fraud