Hibeene Mwiinga, the former economic advisor to ex-President Edgar Lungu, has firmly denied allegations that his properties are proceeds of crime. Mwiinga has challenged the claims by asserting that he had substantial assets and investments prior to his appointment in 2015.
Key Points from Mwiinga’s Defense:
- Pre-Appointment Wealth: Mwiinga argues that he had already accumulated significant wealth and investments before being appointed as economic advisor. He cited his earnings from his role at the African Development Bank (AfDB) from 2006 to 2010, where he claims to have earned over $2 million. Additionally, he stated that he earned around $300,000 from attending four AfDB meetings and noted that he and his wife profited over $3 million from a business involving the resale of clothes and shoes from Scotland.
- Investments and Income: According to Mwiinga, he had a successful career and multiple income streams even before his government role. He highlighted investments in various businesses, including a bakery he started in 2011, which supplied bread to areas up to Chibombo. He also mentioned profits from fish farming, which he claimed involved an initial investment of $200,000 and yielded substantial returns.
- Property Valuation Dispute: Mwiinga disputes the valuation of his Mwembeshi farm, which the State has valued at K12.4 million. He argued that the valuation was inaccurate due to additional construction work done by his son, Hakaantu.
- Travel and Allowances: He detailed his earnings from foreign trips while at State House, claiming a minimum of $7,000 per trip. He also stated that he had over $500,000 in allowances from his time at AfDB.
- Current Allegations: Mwiinga, along with his wife Mercy and son Hakaantu, faces charges related to the possession of properties valued around K41 million and over $238,900, suspected of being crime proceeds. He has denied these allegations and provided a detailed account of his financial history and investments to counter the claims.
Mwiinga’s defense is centered on the argument that his wealth and properties were legally acquired through his earnings and investments prior to and during his time in office. His case highlights ongoing legal scrutiny regarding the legitimacy of asset acquisition and the transparency of financial dealings.
