LUSAKA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Zambian government on Wednesday confirmed that over 70 public workers in the education ministry have been suspended following the disappearance of donor funds meant for maths and science programs.
Presidential Spokesperson Amos Chanda said among those affected includes Permanent Secretary Henry Tukombe who has been placed on administrative leave.
He told reporters during a press briefing held in collaboration with chief government spokesperson Dora Siliya that President Edgar Lungu has instructed that the permanent secretary be placed on administrative leave in order to allow for internal audit into the matter.
The United Kingdom (UK) has suspended its funding to the ministry following revelations of alleged misapplication of funds.
Last week, Finance Minister Margaret Mwanakatwe said about 13.9 million U.S. dollars to the education sector was suspended by donors.
