ERNEST MUTINTA HICHILEMA GRANDSON ENDORSES BRIAN MUNDUBILE
Ernest Namunda, a grandson to the First Lady and a Special Branch officer under the Zambia Intelligence and Security Services, has stirred controversy after a viral video showed him openly flashing the Tonse Pamodzi Alliance’s Tililamp campaign symbol while socialising with colleagues at a well‑known pub and grill.
Namunda, who is currently on administrative leave, appeared to endorse Tonse Pamodzi Alliance President Brian Mundubile in the footage, a move that has triggered concern within security circles where political neutrality is strictly expected.
His latest conduct adds to a string of disciplinary issues. Namunda was employed shortly after the 2021 elections and quickly gained a reputation as a notorious OP, leading to his transfer from the Office of the First Lady at Community House.
The transfer followed allegations that he repeatedly breached State Protocol and administrative regulations, including taking unauthorised photographs of donations, stacks of US dollar cash, and other sensitive items.
Security sources say the video has become a hot topic among intelligence officers, many of whom view the behaviour as inappropriate for someone in his position. President Hakainde Hichilema is said to be angered by the incident, though insiders report that the First Lady, Mutinta Hichilema, has intervened to prevent severe disciplinary action.
Despite the uproar, Namunda is reportedly expected to return to work on Monday, July 20, with officials privately acknowledging that his family connection makes dismissal unlikely. Colleagues describe him as someone who has repeatedly misbehaved, raising questions about accountability within the security establishment.