Zambia’s chief state prosecutor claims that her life is in danger after the government removed all of her security.
Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Lillian Siyunyi, who was appointed by the previous administration, is the subject of accusations before the Judicial Complaints Commission over her professional conduct since she is at odds with the current administration .
She has declined to show up in front of the JCC, claiming that President Hakainde Hichilema must first lift her constitutionally required oath of secrecy before she may do so.
The Director of Public Prosecutions takes an oath of confidentiality that includes the following clauses as one of the highest constitutional offices held in Zambia:”I will not directly or indirectly reveal or transmit any information or matter as shall be made known to me by reason of my office except as may be required in the discharge of my duties as such or with the authority of the president.”
According to Ms. Siyunyi, her request was turned down by the Zambian President akainde Hichilema and the attorney general.
She expressed her displeasure that the JCC had continued the hearing of the complaints against her despite the waiver being rejected.
Ms. Siyunyi further stated that she would be violating the law and committing a crime if she responded to any of the allegations made against her before her pledge of secrecy was lifted.
“I am not at all saying that I am above the law but that there must be total compliance with the provisions of the constitution of Zambia which we all must uphold if we are to uphold the rule of law and protect human rights for all,” she said.
Since last week, Anthony Bwalya, the presidential spokesperson, has not responded to a BBC inquiry on the subject. Chushi Kasanda, the chief government spokesperson and minister of information, directed all inquiries to Mulambo Haimbe, the minister of justice, on Monday. The BBC contacted Haimbe, but he has not yet responded.
