Transparency International Zambia is disappointed with the Ministry of Health’s response to the US Ambassador’s announcement on cutting $50 million in aid to the health sector. We agree with the US Ambassador that the responsiveness of the Government has been less than optimal, given the scope of the theft, the efforts taken to engage stakeholders by the US Embassy, and the consequences of inaction. We are especially concerned that the Minister attempted to divert blame to the previous administration when the evidence indicates that the corruption is ongoing.
As TI-Z, we are of the view that addressing the systematic corruption in the health sector is a litmus test for the seriousness of the UPND’s fight against corruption. This is because such systemic corruption requires political will to prosecute senior government officials and private business people who may have provided political finance support to the administration. It also calls for high-level coordination and technical capacity to conduct credible investigations on the part of law enforcement agencies, and the effective implementation of a favourable legal framework in fighting corruption.
It is also notable that corruption in the health sector has direct impact on health outcomes and can lead to loss of human life. Therefore, if any government demonstrates sluggishness in addressing corruption in the health sector, there would be no basis to believe that such a government could potentially combat corruption in other sectors, where the impact of corruption is nowhere near direct loss of human life.
TI-Z therefore calls upon the UPND Administration to take stock of their resolve to fighting corruption, launch a nation-wide investigation premised on the findings of the forensic report and to put in place necessary preventive measures to halt any further theft of medicines and health supplies. These preventive measures should include sustainable mechanisms such as declaration of assets and liabilities, regulating political party financing, enhancing transparency in public procurement and ensuring effective whistleblower protection, among others.
Maurice K. Nyambe (Mr.)
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
