Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) joins the rest of the continent in commemorating the Africa Anti-Corruption Day today. Adopted by the African Union to honour the adoption of the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption (AUCPCC), this day serves as a critical reminder of our collective commitment to eradicating corruption and fostering transparency and accountability across Africa. As we reflect on the 21 years since the Convention’s adoption, we acknowledge the significant progress made and the challenges that remain in our fight against corruption. The theme for this year’s commemoration, “Effective Whistleblower Protection Mechanism: A Critical Tool in the Fight Against Corruption,” emphasizes the vital role that whistleblowers play in exposing corrupt practices. Whistleblowers act as defenders of integrity, courageously bringing to light instances of corruption that would otherwise remain hidden. Despite the critical role they play, inadequate protections for whistleblowers continue to hinder the effectiveness of anti-corruption efforts. This day provides an opportunity to highlight the importance of effective whistleblower protection mechanisms and to call for enhanced legislative and institutional measures across African Union Member States. TI-Z has been actively advocating for legal reforms to strengthen whistleblower protection through our Stopping Impunity for Corruption through Enhanced Accountability (SICEA) project. A key focus of our efforts has been advocating for the amendment of the Public Interest Disclosure (Protection of Whistleblowers) Act No. 4 of 2012. The current legislation, while providing protections for whistleblowers, falls short in several critical areas. It lacks provisions for protecting whistleblowers outside the framework of employment, fails to address the issue of safe houses for whistleblowers, and is silent on the remuneration for whistleblowers in cases where their actions lead to asset recovery. Additionally, the perennial problem of defining ‘public officer’ remains unresolved. The Public Interest Disclosure Act aims to balance the need for whistleblowing against corruption with the protection of whistleblowers from reprisals. It establishes mechanisms for anonymity, verification of information, and imposes stiff penalties for retaliation against whistleblowers. However, the Act needs significant amendments to ensure it effectively supports whistleblowers in all contexts, providing them with sufficient protection and incentives to report corrupt activities without fear of reprisal. As we commemorate this important day, we call on the Zambian government and all stakeholders to prioritize the amendment of the Public Interest Disclosure Act. We urge the adoption of measures that ensure comprehensive protection for whistleblowers, including the provision of safe houses and appropriate remuneration. By doing so, we can create an environment where whistleblowers feel safe and supported, thereby strengthening our collective efforts to combat corruption. Today, we stand in solidarity with whistleblowers across Africa, recognizing their invaluable contribution to the fight against corruption. TI-Z remains committed to advocating for stronger whistleblower protection laws and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability in Zambia. Let us all work together to ensure that the principles of the AUCPCC are fully realized, paving the way for a corruption free Africa.
Maurice K. Nyambe (Mr.)
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
