Power and Politics

Ex-Kabushi lawmaker, Lusambo, challenges anti-corruption agency, seeks bail pending appeal

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Former Kabushi Member of Parliament, Bowman Lusambo, has opposed the Anti-Corruption Commission’s (ACC) stance that there were no exceptional circumstances to justify his release on bail while awaiting the outcome of his appeal.

Through his legal team, Lusambo argued that the ACC’s claim—relying on the assumption that his appeal will be resolved swiftly—is speculative and overlooks potential administrative delays, including the current delay in preparing his appeal record.

“The likely delay in hearing my appeal makes the case for bail compelling,” Lusambo stated, emphasizing that serving a substantial portion—or even the entirety—of his four-year sentence before the appeal is concluded constitutes an exceptional circumstance.

Lusambo contends that his appeal raises substantive legal and factual issues with a reasonable chance of success.

He claimed the court failed to properly assess evidence showing he did not own the properties in question during his time as a public officer.

He insisted the properties were owned by third parties, including a company in which he held no shares or directorship, and that no evidence linked him to financial benefits from the alleged transactions.

The former lawmaker also highlighted his adherence to bail conditions during his trial, his role as the sole breadwinner for his family, and his wife’s medical condition as further grounds for his release.

Lusambo, who was sentenced to four years in prison in 2024 on corruption charges, maintains that his continued incarceration would cause undue prejudice, especially if his appeal ultimately succeeds.

The court is yet to deliver its ruling on his bail application.

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