LUSAKA, Zambia – September 4, 2025 – In a landmark ruling that has shaken Zambia’s political and financial landscape, former Foreign Affairs Minister Joseph Malanji has been sentenced to four years imprisonment with hard labour, while ex-Secretary to the Treasury Fredson Yamba will serve three years imprisonment with hard labour for their roles in one of the country’s biggest corruption scandals.
The convictions stem from their involvement in the infamous “helicopter case,” which exposed the misuse of public resources and unexplained wealth linked to high-level government officials.
Delivering the verdict, Chief Resident Magistrate Irene Wishimanga, sitting in the Subordinate Court division of the Economic and Financial Crimes Court, declared that the two had betrayed the trust of the Zambian people and abused the positions they once held.
The National Prosecution Authority (NPA) hailed the judgment as a victory for accountability, saying it underscores that no individual—regardless of status or office—is above the law.
“This sentencing sends a powerful message that corruption, financial mismanagement, and abuse of power will not go unpunished,” the NPA said in a statement.
Observers have described the ruling as a turning point in Zambia’s anti-corruption fight, noting that the case will likely set a precedent for future prosecutions of financial crimes.
With this historic decision, Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding justice and ensuring that those who exploit public office for personal gain face the full force of the law.