The Acton Institute for Policy Analysis Centre (AIPAC) says the recent Ministerial reshuffles by President Hakainde Hichilema do not respond to concerns of corruption but that this only serves to perpetuate a culture of accountability evasion.
President Hichilema last Friday, swapped Minister of Energy with Minister of Fisheries and Livestock and last evening swapped Minister of Lands and with Minister of Health.
But AIPAC Executive Director, Solomon Ngoma, says the President should have dropped the Ministers whose ministries are facing corruption suspicions, as opposed to merely moving them to different ministries.
He said this would have enabled the law enforcement agencies to investigate the corruption allegations without interference or bias.
“This is essential to upholding the President’s vision and policy of fighting corruption in Zambia. Anything less would be a betrayal of the public’s trust and a mockery of the rule of law,” said Mr. Ngoma in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today.
He said the President’s commitment to combating corruption must be demonstrated through concrete actions, not mere cabinet reshuffles.
He urged President Hichilema to ensure that all allegations are thoroughly investigated, and those found guilty are held accountable.
By Eva Hatontola
