High Court acquits former Minister Walter Mzembi in corruption case

The High Court has acquitted former Tourism Minister Walter Mzembi of criminal abuse of office charges, ending a long-running legal battle involving alleged US$2 million in state prejudice. Judge Benjamin Chikowero ruled that the State failed to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt, effectively clearing Mzembi of accusations related to the donation of public assets to churches. Mzembi, who previously spent time in remand and lived in self-imposed exile, has successfully countered the state's prosecution efforts. The acquittal raises questions about the efficacy of the state's anti-corruption drive and the judiciary's handling of high-profile political figures. The ruling marks a significant legal victory for the former minister, signaling a potential shift in the state's ability to secure convictions against former officials.