By Merlyn Mwanza
Transparency International Zambia (TIZ) has demanded for clarity, telling President Hakainde Hichilema and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to provide a comprehensive explanation over their silence on Solicitor General Marshal Muchende.
Responding to Daily Revelation over information disclosed to Daily Revelation by impeccable State House sources that the ACC has placed a restriction order on the house belonging to Muchende over allegations that he received US$500,000 for a named former liquidator, TIZ argued that the silence flies in the face of President Hichilema’s claims that he would ask public officials to step aside if they were being investigated, and that the decision by ACC to remain ambiguous fuels growing speculation that there exists politicial interference in its decision.
“In response to recent developments involving the Anti-Corruption Commission’s decision not to provide clear information regarding allegations against the Solicitor General and the existence of a restriction notice on his property, concerns are growing over the lack of transparency and accountability within the legal and political systems,” TIZ executive director Maurice Nyambe argued. “The allegation that the Anti-Corruption Commission has opted to remain ambiguous about ongoing investigations raises questions about the effectiveness of its mission to combat corruption. This further fuels the growing speculation that there exists political interference in its decision, or lack thereof, around such investigations involving officers serving in Government.”
TIZ stressed that while it’s essential to protect the integrity of ongoing investigations on one hand, this has to be balanced against the need for transparency as it is equally crucial to maintain public trust, arguing that Zambians have the right to be informed about the progress of such cases as this directly impacts on the perception of fairness and justice.
“Furthermore, if indeed the allegation is true that there is a restriction notice placed on theproperty belonging to the Solicitor General, we would urge the Head of State to request the Solicitor General to step aside during these investigations,” TIZ demanded. “The decision by the Head of State not to request the Solicitor General to step aside during the investigation is a departure from a previously stated commitment.”
Drawing into President Hichilema’s repeated claims during his opposition times when he said he would not allow officials under investigations to remain in office, Nyambe reminded the President that he committed to ensuring that public officials facing allegations of misconduct would temporarily step aside pending the outcome of investigations.
“This commitment was aimed at upholding the principles of accountability and preventing any potential interference with the investigative process,” Nyambe stated. “As things are, citizens are in limbo on whether or not the Solicitor General is being investigated, and whether there is political
interference involved in his investigation.
The apparent change in stance raises concerns about the consistency and sincerity of promises made by political leaders. Upholding the rule of law and maintaining the separation of powers are crucial for our country, and for a functioning democracy.”
TIZ argued that It is imperative that public officials, especially those in positions of authority like Muchende adhere to the highest ethical standards and demonstrate a willingness to cooperate with investigations that pertain to their conduct.
“In the interest of transparency, accountability, and maintaining public confidence, it is essential that both the Anti-Corruption Commission and the Head of State provide clear and comprehensive explanations for their decisions or lack thereof,” demanded TIZ. “The citizens deserve to know that their legal and political systems are working in their best interests and are committed to addressing allegations of corruption without bias or favoritism.”
