President Hichilema Applauds Zero Tolerance to Corruption
President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia commended the success of the New Dawn Government’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption.
Speaking through Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister Jack Mwiimbu to mark this year’s International Anti-Corruption Day, President Hichilema highlighted the positive outcomes of the government’s determined efforts.
The President emphasized the government’s commitment to a methodical and professional fight against corruption, making it an unattractive endeavor for those involved.
He attributed the success to the zero declaration made in 2021, which has resulted in the recovery of several stolen assets.
Under the theme “Uncurred Against Corruption-UNCAC at 20: Uniting the World Against Corruption,” this year’s International Anti-Corruption Day celebration witnessed President Hichilema reaffirming the government’s dedication to collaboration with all stakeholders in the ongoing battle against corruption.
President Hichilema stated, “We will not shield any government official or tolerate corruption in any government institution; therefore, I call upon every citizen to report any act of corruption to relevant Law Enforcement Agencies.”
To strengthen the fight against corruption, the President announced the establishment of twelve (12) district offices by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), supported by an increased budgetary allocation in the 2023 budget.
The President expressed gratitude for the establishment of 130 integrity committees in various government institutions and disclosed plans to review the National Corruption Policy as a key legislative measure to assist the ACC in carrying out its mandate.
ACC Director General Thom Shamakamba revealed a strategic shift in focus towards asset recovery, stating, “ACC’s investigations & prosecutions have shifted from conviction-based forfeiture to non-conviction-based forfeiture, aimed at recovering ill-gotten assets & depriving criminals from enjoying proceeds of crime.”
United Nations Resident Coordinator Beatrice Mutali affirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting both technical and financial aspects of the anti-corruption efforts.
She stressed the importance of well-resourced institutions with the capacity to operate independently and with integrity.
At the same function, the ACC launched its Strategic Plan for 2022-2026. ACC Board Chairperson Musa Mwenya called for political will, increased staff, an organized structure, adequate funding, and the implementation of legal and policy frameworks to achieve the outlined objectives in the plan.
Mr. Mwenya acknowledged past achievements but highlighted ongoing challenges that need addressing for a successful anti-corruption campaign.
