By Ncaba Ntshakala
Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has categorically denied allegations of owning property or conducting business in Eswatini, following his implication in a report by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ).
Titled “Swazi Secrets – A Glimpse Inside the Tiny Kingdom,” the report has prompted scrutiny and raised questions regarding Lungu’s purported investments in the Kingdom of Eswatini.
In a statement released in response to the allegations, Former President Lungu has set the record straight and asserted, “I have no property or business in Eswatini,” dismissing the accusations as unfounded and based on unverified information, innuendos, and outright falsehoods.
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The former President refuted claims made in the ICIJ report, which alleged his ownership of a luxurious property in Eswatini.
Lungu clarified that during his official visit to Eswatini as Head of State in 2018, the King, His Majesty Mswati III, had offered him a plot of land as a gesture of goodwill.
However, Lungu emphasized that he chose not to accept the offer, particularly in light of the controversy surrounding the alleged gift.
“I was extremely grateful for the offer from His Majesty, King Mswati III, but I chose not to take it up, particularly after the hullabaloo in Zambia, alleging that the gift was not declared,” Lungu stated, highlighting his decision to decline the offer out of respect for King Mswati III and to avoid further controversy.
Lungu expressed disappointment in the remarks made by a senior Zambian government minister, Charles Milupi, challenging him to explain the source of funds for any purported investments in Eswatini.
Lungu asserted that such challenges were unnecessary, as the Zambian government could easily verify the truth of the matter using state machinery.
Moreover, Lungu condemned what he perceived as baseless accusations and malicious attacks by the Zambian government, suggesting a concerted effort to tarnish his reputation.
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He defended Eswatini-based businessman, Michelo Shakantu (also of Zambian nationality) whose company, Inyatsi Construction, has operated in both Zambia and Eswatini for decades, emphasizing the longstanding business relationships between the two countries.
“It is, therefore, malicious and mischievous to suggest or portray that Mr Shakantu conducted business with the Zambian Government only during my tenure as President,” Lungu asserted.
Recently, the government of the Kingdom of Eswatini has also refuted the claims made by the reports. The government has highlighted that those behind such have ulterior motives aimed at tarnishing and destroying development in Eswatini.
