Calls for the dropping of criminal charges against Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Director General Martha Chizuma are growing.

The charges stem from a leaked phone conversation from last January, in which Chizuma is heard making alleged defamatory remarks against public officials.

In response, former Director of Public Prosecutions Steven Kayuni filed a complaint, leading to Chizuma’s arrest.

President Chakwera later launched an inquiry and stated his commitment to keeping Chizuma as ACB boss, but allowed those affected by the leaked audio to take legal action.

Critics claim this weakened the president’s support for Chizuma and left her open to court proceedings.

Human rights activist Undule Mwakasungula argues that instead of prosecuting the victim, the person who recorded and leaked the conversation should be held accountable.