Legal Reforms Have Restored Confidence in Courts and Boosted Anti-Corruption Fight – Mweetwa

Information Minister Cornelius Mweetwa says legal and social reforms introduced under President Hakainde Hichilema have strengthened confidence in the justice system, particularly in the handling of corruption cases, as courts are now able to fast-track matters.

Mr Mweetwa said the establishment of the Financial and Economic Crimes Court has helped reduce bureaucracy that previously delayed corruption cases. He cited the case of former Finance Minister Dr Katele Kalumba, which took more than 20 years to conclude, as an example of delays that reforms are meant to address. He added that recent forfeitures of property considered proceeds of crime and a number of convictions reflect changes in the system.

He stated that government’s anti-corruption campaign targets past, present and future offences. According to the minister, US$24 million was forfeited to the State from a lawyer after government took office, along with additional funds recovered from a female journalist.

Mr Mweetwa described corruption as a serious social problem that requires collective action from citizens. He also said government has taken note of Transparency International Zambia’s Corruption Perception Index, which rated Zambia at 37, and is prepared to engage with the organisation and cooperating partners to find solutions to recurring challenges.

He noted that issues highlighted in the ZAMMSA report contributed to the rating but emphasised that President Hichilema initiated the forensic audit that exposed the concerns. He added that government has been receiving reports of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) abuse and warned that those responsible would face legal action. Allegations of misuse of school grants are also under investigation.

Mr Mweetwa said the issues mentioned could have influenced Zambia’s CPI rating and should serve as a reminder to intensify efforts against corruption. He further criticised opposition claims that anti-corruption efforts are a hoax, saying it was surprising that critics now allege persecution and link convictions to tribal or ethnic considerations.