Mwanajiti calls for genuine efforts in anti-corruption fight

....He says Dialogue  alone without real action and accountability, is not enough in the figjt against corruption.” 

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Lusaka, Zambia24 – (16-10-2024) - Human rights defender Ngande Mwanajiti has issued a strong warning against what he terms superficial efforts in Zambia’s fight against corruption, calling for a more strategic and sustained approach to effectively tackle the issue.

In his latest opinion, Mwanajiti likened corruption to a runaway train, emphasizing that half-hearted measures will do little to stop its progression. 

“The fight against corruption requires a clear, consistent strategy,” he said. “Without a solid plan, we risk allowing corruption to continue unchecked.”

Mwanajiti further accused political leaders of using dialogue as a smokescreen for inaction. 

According to him, many of these leaders, despite being responsible for significant damage in the past, are now attempting to rehabilitate their image through public rhetoric, rather than taking meaningful steps to address the problem.

“Political maneuvering has taken precedence over genuine efforts,” Mwanajiti said. “What we’re seeing is strategic manipulation, with leaders creating an illusion of action while the real issues persist.”

Mwanajiti stressed that dialogue is important, but it must be accompanied by accountability. 

“Dialogue alone is not enough,” he noted. “Without real action and accountability, we risk stagnation and the perpetuation of corruption.” 

He called for discussions on corruption to take place without preconditions and for a genuine commitment to tackling the issue.

Mwanajiti warned that the failure to combat corruption could lead to broader governance failures and foster a culture of lawlessness. “The real struggle is between the rule of law and anarchy,” he said. 

“If we do not act now, we risk a complete breakdown in governance.”

He concluded by urging the government and other stakeholders to ensure that the anti-corruption agenda is pursued with resolve, adding that superficial gestures and rhetoric would not be enough to stop the momentum of corruption.

Mwanajiti’s comments come amid ongoing public concern over corruption in Zambia, with several high-profile cases recently making headlines. 

The government has previously pledged to prioritize the fight against corruption, though Mwanajiti’s statements suggest that more needs to be done to ensure the effectiveness of these efforts.