The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has summoned the Zambia Correctional Service (ZCS) to appear and respond to audit queries raised in the Auditor General’s report for the financial year ended 31st December 2024 regarding the construction of Chief’s palaces.
During the period under review, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development commenced the construction of 109 Chief’s palaces in 88 districts.
The construction of the palaces was to be financed through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), and a provision of K446,666,772 was made.
In November 2023, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development engaged the Zambia Correctional Service to construct 80 Chief’s palaces in seven provinces of Zambia at a total cost of K311,001,359, with a completion period running from 28th November 2023 to 30th August 2024.
A review of the project status report and a physical inspection carried out in August 2025 revealed that out of the 80 palaces, one had been completed, 66 were works in progress, and 13 had not commenced.
The 66 palaces under construction were at various stages, such as foundation level, slab level, window and lintel levels, while others had already been roofed.
PAC Chairperson Warren Mwambazi has since directed the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Nicholas Phiri, to reappear with ZCS on Monday and respond to the queries.
Mr. Mwambazi has wondered why the Zambia Correctional Service has been maintained and not replaced as the contractor if they are not completing the construction works in good time.
By Victoria Kayeye Yambani
