REMARKS BY THE DIRECTOR- GENERAL MR. THOM T. SHAMAKAMBA
AT THE LAUNCH OF TRANSPARENCY INTERNATIONAL’S CORRUPTION PERCEPTION INDEX (CPI) 2023 REPORT
AT TAJ PAMODZI HOTEL
30TH JANUARY 2024
- THE GUEST OF HONOUR, JUSTICE MINISTER HON. MULAMBO HAIMBE, SC,
- TRANSPARENCY INTERNATIONAL ZAMBIA PRESIDENT, MRS PRISCILLA CHIKONDE CHANSA
- TRANSPARENCY INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MR MAURICE NYAMBE
- DISTINGUISHED GUESTS,
- LADIES AND GENTLEMEN,
I am delighted to be with you today and express great pride and optimism in the fight against corruption with the revelation made that Zambia has not only increased its score on the Corruption Perception Index but has also significantly improved its ranking. The CPI score from 33 in 2022 to 37 in 2023, is a testament to the collective efforts of our nation in the on-going battle against corruption. This remarkable ascent from 116th place in 2022 to 98th place in 2023 among 180 countries underscores the dedication and hard work of all stakeholders involved in anti-corruption efforts.
Several factors can be attributed to have contributed to this positive shift in Zambia’s CPI score. These include, among others:
- Judicial reforms that saw the establishment of the Economic and Financial Crimes Court as this has played a pivotal role in enhancing justice, ensuring that those engaged in corrupt practices are held accountable for their actions. This highlights the Government’s commitment to strengthening the rule of law and ensuring that justice is seen to be done. The Commission is also working together with stakeholders to ensure smooth operationalization of the completion of corruption and financial crimes cases within five month.
- The role being played by Integrity Committees which foresee the putting in place of integrity mechanisms in work placed. The IC program which is being spearheaded by the Commission in collaboration with its stakeholders have witnessed the putting in place of gift policies, whistleblower mechanisms, and service charters. These reflect a proactive approach to prevent corruption at its roots.
- Private Sector involvement in the fight against corruption. The efforts being made to reduce the risk of bribery within the business environment by engaging the private sector to develop anti-corruption and bribery mechanisms is a significant milestone. This engagement drives at creating a fair and just business landscape, promoting a level playing field for all and ensuring that economic activities are conducted with integrity.
- The Commission’s effort towards recovery of ill-gotten wealth is in itself a major deterrent in fighting this scourge. Criminals should never be allowed to enjoy looted assets. As such, the Commission will continue to apply both the conviction based forfeitures and non-conviction based forfeitures.
- The increase in public awareness activities have also played a role in informing members of the public of the negative effects of corruption and ensuring that citizens are empowered with ways of reporting identifying suspected cases of corrupt practices and reporting to law enforcement agencies.
In light of this year’s CPI focus on the relationship between the rule of law, injustice, and corruption, I wish to inform you that the Commission is developing a Bill on Asset Declaration for all public officers. This initiative aims at enhancing transparency among public office bearers and strengthening law enforcement investigative operations. This will further facilitate and enhance the conduct of lifestyle audits.
The Commission also recognizes the vital role of efficient whistleblowing systems in uncovering corruption and financial crimes. Therefore, we are set to launch our first online anonymous whistleblowing system next month, to complement the existing platforms such as the toll-free line, WhatsApp, and email reporting systems. A review of the Public Interest Disclosure Act of 2010 to strengthen the legal protection of whistleblowers who play a crucial role in the fight against corruption is thus under way.
In addition, you may wish to know that the Commission is reviewing the Anti-Corruption Act No. 3 of 2012 with a view of putting in place stiffer penalties for corrupt practices, and bringing it in line with some of the provisions in the Constitution, among other aspects.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
As we reflect on the CPI report, we must remain vigilant and committed to the ongoing battle against corruption. The Anti-Corruption Commission reaffirms its dedication to investigating and prosecuting cases of corruption, and we encourage continued collaboration among government bodies, civil society organizations, the private sector, and citizens to consolidate and build upon our successes.
Let this improved Corruption Perception Index score be a source of inspiration and motivation for us to continue our journey towards a corruption-free Zambia.
I thank you.
