Zambian authorities have launched an investigation into a leaked video allegedly showing Foreign Minister Stanley Kakubo receiving large sums of cash from a Chinese businessman.
The video sparked public outrage and accusations of corruption, leading to Kakubo’s resignation on Tuesday.
The video, widely circulated on social media, depicts three men counting piles of neatly stacked bills on a table. While faces are obscured, speculation quickly identified Kakubo as one of the individuals.
Though he did not explicitly deny his presence in the video, Kakubo dismissed the accusations as “malicious claims” related to a private business transaction with a longstanding partner.
He promised to provide clarification “in due course” but stepped down to avoid distracting the government from its focus on improving lives.
The Anti-Corruption Commission confirmed an investigation into the video’s circumstances, acknowledging the severe nature of the allegations.
Opposition parties vehemently condemned the incident, calling for a thorough investigation and potential prosecution.
This marks the second time Kakubo has faced bribery accusations. Last year, a photograph of him receiving a bag from a Chinese national at a cement factory raised similar concerns, which he then disputed, claiming it only contained gifts like a calendar and diary.
President Hakainde Hichilema accepted Kakubo’s resignation while commending his past work and leadership.
However, the incident casts a shadow over Zambia’s relationship with China, a country with significant business interests in the nation.
Over 600 Chinese companies operate in Zambia, many involved in the crucial mining sector that leverages the country’s richness in copper, cobalt, nickel, and manganese.
As the investigation unfolds, Zambia stands at a crucial juncture.
Balancing economic partnership with ethical governance will be a key challenge in the wake of this scandal, demanding transparency and accountability to restore public trust in both leadership and international relations.
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