The Lusaka High Court has heard that murdered Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Director General Guntila Muleya had expressed a wish for protection, citing three work-related issues that were causing him stress.
In this matter, the accused persons are Samuel Dokowe, a systems engineer; IBA accountant Francis Chipyoka, 42; and police officers M’Thusani Dokowe, 29, and Alex Zulu, 30.
It is alleged that on July 23, 2024, in Lusaka, the four allegedly murdered Mr. Muleya, aged 44.
When the matter came up before Judge Vincent Silomba, the late DG’s 46-year-old brother, Muntanga Muleya, testified that his brother had been stressed about three particular issues at work: an application by an accountant seeking a two-year leave to Australia he did not grant; concerns over a project involving motor vehicles whose pricing he found excessive connected to the same accountant; and a discussion with a TV station owner regarding media ethics.
According to the witness, in their last meeting, which took place over lunch in ling acres,the late Muleya said he wished he had protection and wanted to be remembered for doing the right thing.
Meanwhile, a female constable from Northmead Police Post Nelly Mulenga has testified that the serial number on the occurrence book entry signed by Joseph Shawa, for the withdrawal of a firearm, was not indicated.
She has told the court that Mr. Shawa had requested the firearm whose serial number she mentioned in court in order to follow up on a case in the Mass Media area.
The court also heard that four rounds of ammunition booked on July 18, 2024, were returned, and that two rounds booked on July 23 of the same year were returned live.
On July 23, Constable Shawa also requested manpower, and the witness testified that she assigned him officer Caleb Zulu from Northmead Police Post.
The body of Mr. Muleya was discovered on July 24, 2024, in Lusaka’s Njolwe area, a day after he was reported missing upon failing to return home from work.
Trial continues…..
By Best Jere
