Zambia’s Foreign Minister, Stanley Kakubo, resigned amid public outcry over alleged dealings with a Chinese businessman. The controversy emerged after a video circulated on social media showing individuals counting large sums of cash, accompanied by a purported handwritten note indicating dealings between a Chinese and a Zambian mining firm, involving $100,000. The note, dated July 8, 2022, listed Kakubo and a person named ‘Mr. Zang.’ The authenticity of these details could not be verified by WION.
President Hakainde Hichilem’s office confirmed Kakubo’s resignation, commending his leadership and work during his tenure without specifying the reason for his departure. Kakubo, in a separate statement, cited “malicious claims” over a business transaction involving his private family business and their business partner as the reason for his decision. He stated that he wanted to ensure the government is not distracted from addressing the people’s needs.
Zambia heavily relies on copper mining, with China being a major importer of Zambian copper and a significant player in the country’s mining industry. China has also played a key role in international efforts to restructure Zambia’s foreign debt. In 2020, Zambia defaulted on its sovereign debt as the COVID-19 crisis escalated.
The incident highlights concerns about the influence of Chinese businesses and individuals in African countries, particularly in sectors crucial to their economies. The resignation underscores the potential political consequences when officials are implicated in controversial dealings with foreign entities, adding to existing debates on transparency and accountability in government dealings.
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