Zambian Ex-First Lady Arrested on Fraud Charges.

By Caroline Ameh

Former Zambian First Lady Esther Lungu and her daughter Chiyeso Katete were apprehended in the capital city of Lusaka on Thursday, along with another close relative named Charles Phiri, on suspicion of possessing properties believed to be acquired through illicit means.

The state anti-drug agency stated that Lungu failed to provide a satisfactory explanation regarding the acquisition of a $1.5 million estate in Lusaka. Former President Edgar Lungu asserted that the family would contest the charges in court, alleging government victimization to impede his return to politics ahead of the 2026 elections.

Last September, Esther Lungu was arrested over corruption allegations related to theft of motor vehicles and title deeds. Now, she faces charges of fraudulently obtaining luxurious real estate in Lusaka, according to the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC).

The properties in question include 15 white double-storey flats in Lusaka’s State Lodge area, suspected to be proceeds of crime. Lungu’s daughter, Chiyeso Katete, also faces charges related to the acquisition of additional flats and other assets.

Although the accused individuals were released on bond after questioning by DEC officials, Esther Lungu’s other daughter, Tasila, has been summoned to appear before the DEC on Monday.

Former President Lungu’s attempted political resurgence in October prompted the government to revoke his retirement benefits. During his tenure, Zambia accumulated substantial debt and faced economic challenges, leading to heightened scrutiny of his administration by President Hakainde Hichilema’s anti-corruption campaign.

President Hichilema has pledged to recover allegedly looted resources from the previous administration, resulting in investigations targeting former ministers, government officials, and members of the Lungu family. However, critics argue that the anti-corruption efforts are politically motivated.