GBM RELEASED ON MEDICAL GROUNDS

By Mark Ziligone

Former Defense Minister GEOFFREY MWAMBA has been released from prison on medical grounds.

Mr. MWAMBA has been released with 12 others.

Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister JACK MWIIMBU says the release of Mr. MWAMBA follows the due legal process.

Mr. MWIIMBU told journalists at a press briefing in Lusaka today that on February 28, this year, the former Defence Minister petitioned President HAKAINDE #HICHILEMA, requesting the exercise of the prerogative of mercy.

He said President HICHILEMA in a show of compassion and in accordance with procedure, referred the matter to the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security, which holds the legal mandate to discharge terminally ill inmates.

Mr. MWIIMBU explained that after considering all the circumstances surrounding Mr. MWAMBA’s health, the recommendations of the medical board assigned to assess his condition and his decision to withdraw his appeal, grounds were established for his release from prison.

He further called on the political players and the general public to desist from politicising Mr. MWAMBA’s discharge from prison and protect his dignity.

The Minister also extended his well wishes to the former Defence Minister and others for a speedy recovery.

Before his release Mr. MWAMBA had been receiving treatment at #Maina Soko Medical Centre in Lusaka.