Court of Appeal grants Esther, Tasila appeal forfeiture of their properties

By Grace chaile

THE Court of Appeal has granted former First Lady, Esther Lungu and her daughter, Tasila Lungu Mwansa, separate leave to appeal the Economic and Financial Crimes Court’s (EFCC) decision to forfeit their properties to the State.
Judges Kelvin Muzenga and Chalwe Muchenga ruled in favour of Ms Lungu and Ms Mwansa, respectively, allowing them to challenge the judgments.
Their lawyer, Charles Changano, confirmed the development, stating that Ms Lungu has 30 days to file her notice of appeal, while Ms Mwansa has 14 days.
The EFCC had ruled that Ms Lungu’s State Lodge flats in Lusaka, valued at K66 million, be forfeited to the State, arguing that the properties were tainted.
Ms Lungu is contesting the forfeiture, arguing that the EFCC erred in law and fact by deeming the properties tainted without sufficient evidence.
She also contends that the court failed to consider her husband, former President Edgar Lungu’s financial means in constructing the properties.
However, the EFCC, comprised of Judges Pixie Yangailo, Ian Mabbolobbolo, and Vincent Siloka, initially denied Ms Lungu leave to appeal, citing a lack of prospects for success.
They further argued that the case, though novel, does not address matters of public importance as it pertains to private rights.
Similar grounds were cited in the denial of Ms Mwansa’s application.
The appeals will now proceed to the Court of Appeal for further consideration.