Minister of Mines and Minerals Development Paul Kabuswe has turned to the Lusaka High Court, seeking leave to initiate defamation proceedings against PF Matero Member of Parliament, Miles Sampa.
Kabuswe has requested an interim injunction to restrain Sampa and his associates from making any defamatory statements against him until the court delivers its final verdict or issues further orders.
In court documents, lawyer representing Kabuswe, Vianney Kalaba Luswili stressed the urgency of the matter, citing concerns that Sampa might persist with similar remarks, potentially causing irreparable harm to Kabuswe’s reputation.
Luswili further highlighted the need for immediate legal intervention, particularly since the court is on its Christmas recess from December 11, 2024, to January 9, 2025.
“Unless leave is granted to commence action during the recess, the plaintiff may face financial constraints and irreparable damage to his reputation,” Luswili stated.
The application, while refraining from detailing the alleged defamatory remarks, referred to a recent demand letter sent by Kabuswe to Sampa.
In the letter, Kabuswe demanded K50 million as compensation for allegedly tarnishing his character.
Sampa had accused Kabuswe of amassing wealth through dubious dealings in the sale of Mopani Copper Mines to new investors.
Kabuswe had also issued a three-day ultimatum for Sampa to retract the statements posted on his Facebook page, failing which legal action would proceed.
