Gov’t Reviews Anti-Corruption Law as a Tool for National Transformation
The Zambian government has reaffirmed its commitment to fighting corruption, stating that the review of the Anti-Corruption Act No. 3 of 2012 is more than a legal reform; it is a strategic tool for national transformation.
Speaking today at the National Stakeholder Consultative Workshop in Lusaka, Acting Minister of Justice Honourable Collins Nzovu emphasized that the review process aims to safeguard national integrity and ensure that future generations inherit a society grounded in good governance, the rule of law, and transparency.
“The review of the Anti-Corruption legal framework is a demonstration of the government’s unwavering commitment to good governance and the protection of public resources,” Hon. Nzovu stated.
He further assured that the government is engaging all relevant stakeholders to ensure the revised Act is both comprehensive and inclusive.
Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Acting Director General Mrs. Monica Chipanta Mwansa acknowledged the contributions of various stakeholders in the review process.
“We have partnered with key stakeholders to address the evolving landscape of anti-corruption efforts, ensuring that we respond to today’s challenges while preparing for tomorrow,” she said.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice Ambassador Isabelle Lemba highlighted that the consultative meeting aims to align the government’s anti-corruption policies with the expectations and needs of Zambians.
Meanwhile, Germany’s Ambassador to Zambia, Anne Wagner-Mitchell, expressed hope that the consultation process will lead to a strengthened legal framework that effectively combats corruption in all its forms.
“I hope this workshop builds consensus on the process and content of the review to produce an enhanced anti-corruption law that upholds integrity, accountability, and the rule of law,” she stated.
The review follows the Cabinet’s approval last year of the Anti-Corruption (Amendment) Bill, 2024. This significant step aligns with the National Policy on Anti-Corruption, and the ACC, in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice and the Zambia Law Development Commission, has since engaged stakeholders from civil society, faith-based organizations, and the private sector to make submissions on the proposed amendments.
