Legal battle ensues in Lusaka High court over late minister Magande’s estate

Eighteen months after the passing of former Finance Minister Ng’andu Magande, a legal battle over his estate has emerged in the Lusaka High Court.

Namweemba Bianca Magande, 38, claims to be Magande’s biological daughter born out of wedlock and is suing the administrators of his estate, seeking her share of the inheritance.

In court documents, Namweemba has named Simwaale Magande, Joyce Mudenda, and Nakanjoli Magande as defendants, arguing that they have unfairly excluded her from the estate.

Magande passed away on October 22, 2023, at Maina Soko Military Hospital in Lusaka.

The defendants were granted authority to administer his estate by a High Court order on February 20, 2024.

However, Namweemba contended that since their appointment, the administrators have refused to acknowledge her claim, despite her alleged status as Magande’s biological daughter.

She further claims they have denied her paternity, despite knowing of her existence.

To support her case, she cites a July 2, 2021, report she filed at the Victim Support Unit (VSU) at Lusaka Central Police, alleging financial neglect by the late minister.

According to Namweemba, a meeting was held at VSU on July 3, 2021, where Magande, accompanied by a witness, Samuel Kanchelo, acknowledged her as his daughter and pledged financial support, including rent assistance and household provisions.

Namweemba alleged that the administrators have failed to provide her with an inventory of the estate, preventing her from knowing the full extent of her potential entitlement.

She is seeking:

A court order compelling the administrators to disclose a full inventory of the estate.

A directive for fair distribution of the estate, including her rightful share.

Coverage of her legal costs.

The case is now before the Lusaka High Court.

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