Corruption Countdown #8. Arrest of IDC CEO and Lusaka Businessman Over Illegal Mukula Exportation

To commemorate one year since the New Dawn government took office, this month Open Zambia is taking stock on one of the UPND’s major manifesto promises: clamping down on corruption. We’re counting down the top ten biggest busts of the past year to see how what a difference this new administration is making. 

#8: Arrest Of IDC CEO And Lusaka Businessman Over Illegal Exporting Of Mukula Logs

Back in January this year, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) arrested Mateyo Kaluba, Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) CEO over the alleged abuse of authority of his position.

 The criminal acts took place between 1st March 2020 and the 31st March 2021 when Mr Kaluba abused the authority of his office by directing Zambia Forestry and Forest Industry Corporation (ZAFFICO) to enter into a sale of Mukula logs with the Dugguan Baichan Trading Company.

Mr Kabula alongside others were unable to follow legal procurement procedures and therefore broke section 21(1) of the Anti-Corruption Act.

Additionally, the commission arrested Ackson Tembo, another Lusaka businessman, concerning the export of Mukula logs. During the sale, he also failed to follow legal procedure when moving 23 steel containers full of Mukula without necessary permits and licences.

Furthermore, he was charged with the conveyancing of forestry produce without a licence following an attempt to move 16 steel containers full of Mukula logs on various motor vehicles and trailers.

The crackdown on illegal Mukula exporting is a testament to President Hichilema’s promise to remove all forms of corruption within Zambia within both the political and business spheres.