Mwambazi says UPND’s fight against corruption genuine

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Outgoing Public Accounts Committee (PAC) Chairperson Warren Mwambazi says the fight against corruption under the United Party for National Development (UPND) government has been genuine, citing increased accountability measures and reforms aimed at strengthening public financial management.

Mr. Mwambazi says government has made progress in ensuring that public institutions maintain proper audit trails, accountability systems and transparency in the management of public resources.

Mr. Mwambazi described the fight against corruption as a continuous and difficult process requiring sustained sensitisation and advocacy.

He said there is need to further strengthen institutions such as the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) and Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) so that they can effectively execute their mandates without undue influence.

Mr. Mwambazi commended the institutions for their work but stressed that more needs to be done, particularly within the civil service, to enhance accountability among controlling and accounting officers.

He said government has gradually increased funding to the ACC to enhance its operations, including the acquisition of equipment, software and uninterrupted power supply systems required in the fight against corruption.

Mr. Mwambazi said that, as Chairperson of the committee responsible for sector budget analysis, he has consistently advocated increased funding for oversight institutions to improve efficiency and service delivery.

He also praised the Office of the Auditor General for continuing to expose irregularities through audit reports, while noting that the Public Accounts Committee has maintained its oversight role regardless of which government is in office.

Mr. Mwambazi explained that when the committee began scrutinising past audit reports, some critics accused it of conducting a witch-hunt.

However, he said the committee remained committed to promoting transparency and ensuring the proper utilisation of public resources.

He further highlighted government reforms such as the Annual Borrowing Plan and establishment of the Public Debt Office, saying these measures have strengthened parliamentary oversight and improved public debt management.

Mr. Mwambazi said the requirement for government borrowing to be approved by Parliament demonstrates a commitment to good governance and accountability.

He commended the Ministry of Finance for introducing reforms aimed at improving debt management, including the enactment of the Public Debt Management Act No. 11 of 2022.

According to Mr. Mwambazi, Zambia has become an example within the SADC region in implementing reforms aimed at promoting prudent debt management and accountability.

He noted that countries across the region, including Zambia, Malawi and Botswana, have faced challenges relating to public debt management, making such reforms critical.

Mr. Mwambazi reiterated that the fight against corruption remains an ongoing process that requires continuous support for oversight institutions and cooperation from the public to promote transparency and accountability in governance.

Ends

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