ACB protests plea bargaining in Mpinganjira’s case

Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) said the Bureau had a “strong case” against businessman Thomson Mpinganjira, stating there was no reason to bargain on their part.

However, Matemba admitted that “plea bargain agreement”is allowed in law and that the Bureau will have to hear from the defence on the plea bargaining.

Defence lawyer Patrice Nkhono said his client resolved for a plea bargain agreement with the ACB.

Plea bargaining allows the accused to plead guilty in exchange for an agreement with prosecuting to drop some charges, maintain lesser charge and recommend to the presiding judge a specific sentence agreed by the two parties.

Mpinganjira was arrested and dragged to court by the Bureau for allegedly attempting to bribe Constitutional Court judges who presided over the disputed 2019 Presidential poll.

Mpinganjira has since been remanded to Chichiri Prison after Justice Dorothy De Grabrielle, who is presiding over the case, revoked his bail for suggesting plea bargaining agreement.

The case returns to Court on October 30.

Source:MBC