Court sustains Chaponda’s suspension over Zambia maize-gate

The High Court in Mzuzu has sustained the suspension imposed on Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development Dr. George Chaponda.

Earlier this month, Justice John Chirwa suspended Chaponda to pave way for smooth investigations on the matter but the State through Attorney General Kalekeni Kaphale challenged the injunction, saying the court erred.

On January 12, Justice Chirwa ruled in favour of the Civil Society Organization (CSOs) led by Charles Kajoloweka by sustaining the suspension until the commission of inquiry which was scheduled to release its findings today but President Mutharika extended the releasing date by seven days.

Following the expiry of the ruling, Justice Chirwa extended his ruling on the matter today, saying Chaponda should remain on suspension until the commission of inquiry releases its findings on the matter.

Meanwhile CSOs have filed for contempt of court against Chaponda for sneaking out of the country to Germany despite an order stopping him.