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…after being evacuated from Mwembeshi Maximum prison to Maina Soko after his health deteriorated, needing emergency medical attention
By GRACE CHAILE
FORMER Defence Minister Geoffrey Bwalya Mwamba was yesterday evacuated from Mwembeshi Correctional Facility to Maina Soko Military hospital after his health worsened.
Mwamba who was sentenced to five years with hard labour on charges of conflict of interest has in the recent weeks begged the courts to grant him bail pending appeal, so he accesses medical attention in South Africa for his heart condition.
His lawyer, Charles Changano confirmed in an interview with Daily Nation that Mwamba had been evacuated to Maina Soko Military Hospital from the prison facility.
“He is unwell and he is complaining. His feet are swollen and requires urgent medical attention,” he said.
Mr Changano stated Mwamba’s renewed bail application was heard by the High Court Economic and Financial Crimes division on Tuesday and ruling reserved to November 15, 2024.
Mwamba’s final trial sessions were conducted virtually due to frequent medical breaks every 30 minutes, required by his prescribed medication. His lawyer, State Counsel Bonaventure Mutale, argued that Mwamba’s life is at severe risk without immediate access to advanced medical care.
However, in an affidavit in opposition, Principal state advocate, Angelica Kennedy-Mwanza opposed GBM’s application, asking the Economic and Financial Crimes Court (EFCC) – High Court not to grant bail.
Ms Kennedy-Mwanza stated the UTH and private hospitals can provide necessary care for GBM’s heart condition.
In her affidavit, Kennedy-Mwanza denied claims that UTH or private hospitals cannot handle GBM’s condition, citing lack of evidence.
She contended that proof of facts required credible evidence, not speculation.
GBM’s ill health does not warrant exceptional circumstances for bail, Kennedy-Mwanza argued.
She argued that EFCC’s fast-track court disposes of matters quickly, with a five-month timeframe for appeals.
The notice of appeal was filed on October 10, 2024, starting the five-month countdown.
Kennedy-Mwanza urged the court not to grant bail pending appeal, citing potential prejudice to the State’s effective prosecution.
