Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) urges the Government to ensure that the
ongoing review of the Anti-Corruption Act (No. 3 of 2012) is conducted through a
transparent, inclusive, and consultative process. The Anti-Corruption Act is a cornerstone
of Zambia’s legal framework to combat corruption, defining the structure, powers, and
functions of the Anti-Corruption Commission. It outlines crucial provisions for the
prevention, detection, investigation, prosecution, and punishment of corrupt practices,
grounded in principles of the rule of law, integrity, transparency, accountability, and
responsible public governance.
The primary legal frameworks that guide the implementation of Zambia’s anti-corruption
policies are the Constitution Amendment Act No. 2 of 2016 and the Anti-Corruption Act
itself. However, these laws face several challenges that hinder their full effectiveness.
From a legal point of view, discrepancies exist between some provisions of the
Constitution (Amendment Act No. 2 of 2016) and the Anti-Corruption Act, particularly to
do with the definition of state and public officer, which have made it difficult to fight
corruption in a wholesome manner.
Institutionally, there are concerns about poor coordination among key stakeholders, and
insufficient collaboration between law enforcement agencies (LEAs) when it comes to the
anti-corruption agenda.
In light of these challenges, TI-Z supports the call for a comprehensive review of these
legislative frameworks, as recommended by the IMF Diagnostic Governance Report, in a
manner that is both transparent and inclusive.
While TI-Z acknowledges and commends government’s efforts to review and revise the
Anti-Corruption Act, we strongly advocate for a process that allows for broad stakeholder
engagement. This will ensure that the views of all relevant parties—ranging from
government institutions, civil society, the private sector, and the public—are heard and
integrated into the new legal framework. This is critical not only for strengthening the fight
against corruption but also for creating a piece of legislation that will endure and evolve
with time.
TI-Z believes that a transparent, inclusive, and accountable process will result in an Anti
Corruption Act that enhances Zambia’s ability to prevent, detect, investigate, and
prosecute corruption effectively. It will also ensure that Zambia’s anti-corruption
framework is aligned with regional and international conventions to which the country is
a party, and fully supports the implementation of the National Policy on Anti-Corruption.
TI-Z remains committed to supporting the government and all stakeholders in the fight
against corruption, and we call for a review process that will lead to a more effective,
robust, and sustainable legal framework for Zambia’s anti-corruption efforts.
Maurice K. Nyambe (Mr.)
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
