IMMIGRATION PROBE MUKANDILA’S ALLEGED CONGOLESE NATIONALITY

IMMIGRATION PROBE MUKANDILA’S ALLEGED CONGOLESE NATIONALITY Questions have been raised over the citizenship and identity of Celestine Mukandila, with the Department of Immigration and other relevant authorities investigating his alleged nationality and the circumstances under which he obtained Zambian national documents. The allegations suggest that Mukandila may previously have been known as Rocky MAMBULA, allegedly […]

IMMIGRATION PROBE MUKANDILA’S ALLEGED CONGOLESE NATIONALITY

Questions have been raised over the citizenship and identity of Celestine Mukandila, with the Department of Immigration and other relevant authorities investigating his alleged nationality and the circumstances under which he obtained Zambian national documents.

The allegations suggest that Mukandila may previously have been known as Rocky MAMBULA, allegedly from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and may have subsequently changed his name to Celestine Mukandila.

The allegations further claim that the name change was undertaken without a lawful Deed Poll and that Mukandila may have used different names when writing examinations at Nyenyezi and Matero Boys.

Questions have also been raised concerning the village reportedly declared on his National Registration Card, with allegations that he does not belong to the stated village.

According to the claims, Mukandila and his parents came to Zambia around 2001 and subsequently went to Hone College to learn English. The allegations further question whether accurate information concerning his birthplace, nationality and origin was provided when he obtained his green National Registration Card.

If established by the relevant authorities, the allegations could have implications under Zambian law and may warrant further investigation into the circumstances surrounding his citizenship and national registration.

Questions could also arise concerning academic and professional qualifications allegedly obtained by Mukandila, including qualifications from LIUTEBM University, and whether any findings relating to his identity or citizenship would affect their status under the Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA). His practising licence through the Zambia Institute of Advanced Legal Education (ZIALE) could similarly come under scrutiny if any unlawful conduct were established.

The allegations have also raised broader questions about the participation of persons whose citizenship may be disputed in Zambian politics, particularly following alleged disruptive activities at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre

Further questions have been raised regarding photographs purportedly showing Mukandila’s late mother and twin sister, who are alleged to be Congolese.

The claims suggest that, if the identities and nationalities of the individuals in the photographs are independently established, the Department of Immigration should explain the legal and documentary basis upon which Mukandila acquired or was recognised as a Zambian citizen.

The issue is also of potential concern to friends, colleagues and business associates who may have dealt with Mukandila on the understanding that he was a Zambian citizen holding a green National Registration Card.

The central question remains: on what legal and documentary basis did Celestine Mukandila acquire or obtain recognition as a Zambian citizenship.-ZWD