The Economic and Financial Crimes Court has denied Chiyeso Lungu, daughter of former President Edgar Lungu, her application to stay the execution of a court ruling that forfeited her properties to the state.
The panel of judges, comprising Ann Malata-Ononuju, Ian Mabbolobbolo, and Vincent Siloka, stated in their decision that they were not convinced the appeal had strong prospects of success.
“In our considered view, the grounds of appeal do not reveal any special circumstances, let alone any realistic prospects of succeeding,” the ruling read.
The judges stated that no exceptional circumstances were demonstrated to justify a stay of execution.
The state, represented by the Director of Public Prosecutions, had earlier opposed Chiyeso’s application, arguing that it lacked merit.
Senior Investigations Officer Emmanuel Khondowe of the Drug Enforcement Commission argued that her appeal held no promise of success, urging the court to dismiss the plea.
Chiyeso had sought the court’s intervention to halt the forfeiture pending the outcome of her appeal.
She also requested the return of her personal belongings, claiming the state’s actions were excessive.
“The state locked up my movable belongings, including electrical appliances and furniture, in my absence,” she told the court, describing the move as heavy-handed.
However, the court remained unmoved, ruling in favour of the state.
