Bowman Lusambo’s courtroom antics, combined with his somewhat controversial explanations, continue to grab headlines. In his latest appearance, the jailed former Lusaka Province Minister claimed he was unable to open his defense due to a headache he attributed to the uncomfortable journey from Luanshya to Lusaka, during which he supposedly hit his head on the vehicle’s roof. His defense lawyer, Nkhula Botha, further explained that Lusambo had been in custody prior to this trip, making it difficult for him to prepare properly.
Lusambo is facing two counts of possessing property suspected to be proceeds of crime. Specifically, he is accused of owning a four-bedroom house in Chamba Valley and six unfinished flats between 2015 and 2021, properties believed to have been illegally acquired. The prosecution, led by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), argued that Lusambo had ample time to prepare his defense since he was put on notice in July. They also suggested that he could receive medical attention while in custody, as he had been incarcerated at Lusaka’s central correctional facility.
Despite the defense’s request for further time and medical attention, Chief Magistrate Davies Chibwili ruled that Lusambo would be given time to rest and resume his defense the following day. However, Lusambo’s lawyer pointed out that Friday wouldn’t work for him due to a pending judgment in a separate case involving corruption charges related to his wife, Nancy Manase.
In a lighter moment, as he was being escorted to the correctional facility, Lusambo humorously joked with media personnel, promising them a feast in 2026. This playful remark comes as his legal troubles and accusations of corruption continue to unfold, drawing both public attention and media scrutiny.
The case is set to continue, with Lusambo’s defense now adjourned until November 28, 2024, while his police bond has been extended.
