The revelation that former Zambian president Edgar Chagwa Lungu may have been traveling on a Zimbabwean diplomatic passport has sparked outrage and raised questions about the misuse of diplomatic immunity. If true, this would not only be a breach of protocol but also a potential abuse of power.
Journalists Maynard Manyowa and Hopewell Chin’ono have been vocal about the rampant misuse of diplomatic passports in Zimbabwe. According to Manyowa, the South African authorities are growing increasingly concerned about the sheer number of individuals holding these passports. Chin’ono further alleged that the passports have been handed out to wives and girlfriends of political elites, as well as some female radio presenters.
The Al Jazeera documentary “Gold Mafia” exposed the dark side of Zimbabwe’s diplomatic passport holders, revealing that some individuals, like Uebert Angel, used their diplomatic status to smuggle gold to Dubai. This scandal highlights the potential for abuse and corruption associated with diplomatic immunity.
The authorities must provide clarity on the allegations surrounding Lungu’s diplomatic passport and take concrete steps to address the misuse of diplomatic passports. The people of Zimbabwe deserve transparency and accountability, especially when it comes to sensitive issues like diplomatic immunity.
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