PRESIDENT HICHILEMA FIRES ZAMBIA’S DEPUTY AMBASSADOR TO ETHIOPIA OVER US$500,000 FRAUD.
President Hakainde Hichilema has dismissed Zambia’s Deputy Ambassador to Ethiopia, Tom Michelo, following allegations that he fraudulently obtained US$500,000 from a Chinese investor.
Michelo, popularly known as “Tom Chocolate,” is alleged to have received the money while serving in his diplomatic capacity, promising to facilitate meetings with senior government officials and assist the investor in establishing business ventures in Zambia.
Earlier this week, the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) arrested Michelo in connection with the matter. Prior to his arrest, President Hichilema had suspended him to allow investigations to proceed.
Following the establishment of a case against him, Michelo was recalled from his diplomatic posting and his appointment was terminated with immediate effect.
Michelo is a well-known political figure in Matero and finished second in the 2021 parliamentary elections.
President Hichilema has on several occasions stated that he will not shield public officials who break the law and that anyone found wanting will face the consequences of their actions.
The dismissal of Michelo is likely to be viewed by many as consistent with that position, as the President has allowed law enforcement agencies to proceed with investigations and action against one of his own appointees.