Livingstone Mayor Accused of Receiving K180,000 Bribe – Witness Testifies in Court

A key witness has told the Livingstone Magistrate Court that Livingstone Mayor Constance Muleabai allegedly received a K180,000 bribe in a corruption case linked to the cancellation of property rates owed by a private business.

Testifying before the court, Elizabeth Mweemba, a nurse by profession, claimed she was asked by her close friend and businessman, Mark Gabites, to deliver cash to the Mayor. The funds, she told the court, were meant to secure a 100% waiver of property rates owed by Zam Nuka Farm Ltd, owned by Mr. Gabites.

According to Mweemba, she personally delivered the K180,000 cash in installments to the mayor’s office on two separate occasions — first K120,000, followed by K60,000. She further alleged that these payments were made in exchange for the full cancellation of over K300,000 in accumulated property rates.

Charges Against Mayor Muleabai

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has charged Mayor Muleabai with:

• Soliciting for a bribe

• Receiving financial advantage in the discharge of her public functions

She is currently facing two counts of corrupt practices under the Anti-Corruption Act.

Court Developments

During cross-examination, the defense questioned the witness’s credibility and her direct involvement in the transaction. The matter has since been adjourned to allow for further testimony and cross-examination of witnesses.

Mayor Muleabai has pleaded not guilty to all charges and maintains her innocence.

Public & Legal Implications

This case has drawn public interest due to the high profile of the accused and the nature of the allegations. The ACC has reiterated its commitment to holding all public officials accountable, regardless of position.

Observers believe the outcome of this case could set an important precedent in Zambia’s ongoing fight against corruption within local government structures.

The case continues.