President Hakainde Hichilema has refuted allegations that the fight against corruption in Zambia is politically or ethnically inclined.
Mr. Hichilema says the fight against corruption in Zambia is targeted at individuals that may have stolen from Zambians, regardless of political affiliation or ethnicity.
Speaking when he launched the National Policy on Anti Corruption in Lusaka today, Mr. Hichilema acknowledged the long time spent on disposing off corruption cases in Zambia.
“This is why government working with cooperating partners has launched the National Policy on Anti Corruption,” said Mr. Hichilema.
He said that the policy seeks to dispose off corruption cases faster and in a professional way.
Mr. Hichilema said that the policy will further answer to the complications involved in the fight against corruption.
Speaking at the same launch, British High Commissioner to Zambia, Nicholas Woolley, assured that the United Kingdom will continue investing in Zambia towards a free corruption nation.
He said UK will work with Zambia to recover and return stollen property and ensure the perpetrators are brought to book.
Meanwhile, Chandler Foundation Zambia Country Lead, Reuben Lifuka, said the efficacy of the launched National Policy on Anti-Corruption will be measured through its implementation.
Mr. Lifuka called for disciplined approach is using the Anti-Corruption Policy, for the country to attract much needed development through enhanced investment.
And Transparency International Zambia President Priscila Chansa, observed geographic coverage of ACC and bribery, as some of the issues that have continued to limit the functions of the commission.
Ms. Chansa said the launch of the National Policy of Anti-Corruption is expected to change contextual circumstance, by strengthening Zambia’s fight against corruption.
In his remarks, Anti-Corruption Commission Director-General Tom Shamakamba has assured that the commission will leverage on digital tools to tackle corruption, using the just launched National Policy on Anti-Corruption.
Mr. Shamakamba said corruption has no future in Zambia, and that the commission will collaborate with other government agencies, civil society and international organizations, to ensure the country is defined by integrity
By Eva Hatontola/Angel Kasabo