Smart Mumba, who is co-accused with his wife, yesterday denied killing their 14-year-old maid, Janet Mpundu, in 2023.
Mumba told the court that Janet died from injuries sustained in a fall after attempting to run away.
Mumba, a 40-year-old nurse and lecturer from Rockfield in Chalala, Lusaka, and his wife, Chanda Lwembo, are accused of murdering Janet.
In his defense, Mumba explained that Janet had been experiencing abnormal pains and chest pains while coughing and sneezing. She was also bleeding from her private parts.
The couple took Janet to Michael Chilufya Sata Clinic, where she was given medication. Mumba’s wife observed that Janet had a foul smell on her body, which led to the discovery of the bleeding.
When questioned about the bleeding, Janet claimed she had been experiencing it for a long time and that her mother was aware of it. However, when Mumba’s wife contacted Janet’s mother, she denied knowledge of the condition.
Mumba stated that his wife had complained about Janet’s behavior, including stealing, lying, and refusing to work. Janet’s mother advised Mumba’s wife to correct Janet’s behavior.
Mumba explained that he decided to send Janet back to her mother due to her behavior and medical issues. However, before arrangements could be made, Janet died under unclear circumstances.
Mumba recounted the events of August 28, 2023, when Janet dropped his infant son, causing him to fall and hit his head. In a state of panic, Mumba admitted to whipping Janet with a belt.
He also stated that Janet sustained burns from a pot of porridge that fell on her. Mumba testified that he attempted to pour water on her to alleviate the burns and then carried her inside, where his wife helped him lay her down.
The next morning, Mumba and his wife discovered Janet unresponsive and not breathing well. Mumba told the court that he performed CPR, but Janet died shortly thereafter.
The couple reported the incident to the police and took Janet’s body to the University Teaching Hospital (UTH). An autopsy was performed, but Mumba disputes the findings.
Mumba claimed that he and his wife had treated Janet like one of their own children and had provided her with financial support and medical care.
The prosecution alleged that Mumba and his wife physically abused Janet, leading to her death. However, Mumba maintained that he was the only one who had whipped Janet and that his wife had never laid a hand on her.
The defense questioned Mumba about the events leading up to Janet’s death, including the pot of porridge that fell on her. Mumba acknowledged that he had not sought medical attention for his own burns.
The prosecution pointed out that Mumba had not informed Janet’s parents about her burns or her medical condition.
A neighbor testified that they had heard Janet crying, which Mumba confirmed was a result of his whipping her.
The trial has been adjourned until February 25.
