PeP leader, Tembo, tags government’s $13.5 million Zambeef farm purchase as unlawful

Sean Tembo, president of the Patriots for Economic Progress (PEP), has challenged government’s acquisition of Zambeef’s Chiawa farm for US$13.5 million, denouncing the transaction as unlawful and procedurally flawed.

In a forceful application for leave to commence judicial review proceedings at the Lusaka High Court, Tembo asserted that government’s purchase of the 8,658-hectare property was made without the necessary approval from Parliament, rendering the transaction invalid.

He argued that this acquisition breaches multiple legal provisions, including Section 20 of the Public Procurement Act, Section 3 of the Lands Act, and Articles 16(2)(c), 198(B)(III)(d), and 257 of the Constitution.

“The National Assembly of Zambia holds the exclusive authority to appropriate public funds for expenditure,” Tembo declared.

“The government’s decision to spend public funds without parliamentary approval is not only illegal but void from the outset,” he said.

Tembo is demanding a certiorari order to annul the purchase, citing it as unlawful, irrational and in blatant disregard of proper procedures.

He is also seeking a mandamus order to compel the government to conduct an independent valuation of the land and ensure strict adherence to public procurement laws and constitutional standards.

Additionally, Tembo called for a prohibition order to halt any further actions related to the land purchase until a comprehensive review is conducted and all legal requirements are strictly followed.

On August 10, 2024, Tembo watched a ZNBC broadcast announcing government’s acquisition of the Zambeef Chiawa farm.

In response, he convened an emergency national executive committee meeting, where party members unanimously expressed grave concerns over the $13.5 million purchase and resolved to challenge it legally.

On August 13, 2024, Tembo issued a demand letter to the Attorney-General, insisting that the planned acquisition be immediately halted.

The Attorney-General had yet to respond to the demand.

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