By Given Mutinta
PILATO SECRETLY TRANSFERRED AMID CORRUPTION ALLEGATIONS
Fumba Chama, popularly known as Pilato, rose to prominence as a renowned Zambian artist before being appointed Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts by President Hakainde Hichilema.
The appointment was widely viewed as an effort to bring youthful innovation and creativity into government service.
However, Pilato’s promising tenure has been overshadowed by serious corruption allegations.
Central to the scandal are claims of financial misconduct involving payments related to the use of government youth tankers and motorcycles.
Initially, the government intended to terminate Pilato’s appointment. Yet, rather than dismiss him publicly, officials opted for a discreet transfer to the Law Enforcement Agencies Cabinet Office.
This quiet maneuver was aimed to shield the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts from further reputational damage and to manage political fallout quietly.
Although other individuals were implicated, no evidence has emerged implicating his associates, leaving him alone with a case to answer.
Pilato was told that his dismissal will take place after the upcoming August elections, suggesting a strategic delay in addressing the matter fully.