Chaponda is angry: Takes over the duty of Commission of inquiry into Admarc saga

Embattled minister of agriculture, irrigation and water development George Chaponda has maintained his innocence in dirty money transaction in procuring maize from Zambia.

Following media reports that claimed that Chaponda and Admarc top boss Foster Mulumbe had a hand in making dubious transactions, the minister has refuted the claims arguing that he was not involved in the purchase of maize.

In a press statement that has been released, Chaponda has disclosed that he had “minimal” involvement in the procuring process of maize in Zambia.

“At the outset, let me report that, my involvement was minimal as the main buyer of the maize was ADMARC and not the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development. As most of you, may be aware, the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development oversees the operations of parastatals including ADMARC.

“While the Ministry focuses on providing policy direction and guidance, the parastatals manage day to day operational issues of their institutions and they are answerable to their Boards,” reads part of the statement signed by Chaponda.

Chaponda’s statement follows President Peter Mutharika’s appointment of a commission of inquiry appointment to probe the maize saga.

The commission of inquiry has been tasked to prove Chaponda’s claim and Mulumbe’s action in the procurement process and is expected to present its findings at the end of the month.