Advocates for Democratic Governance Foundation (ADEG) has […]

Advocates for Democratic Governance Foundation (ADEG) has expressed concern regarding continued condemnation of corruption in the country without corresponding action to hold those responsible accountable, stating that President Hakainde Hichilema’s anti-corruption pronouncements must translate into visible results.

Speaking in an interview with Zambian Business Times (ZBT), ADEG Executive Director, and Gideon Musonda said the organization recognises the President’s repeated commitment to fighting corruption but remains concerned that the actions taken do not match the scale of irregularities exposed in Auditor General’s reports.

Musonda added that the recurrence of serious audit findings, including during the UPND administration, raises questions about the effectiveness of efforts to confront corruption and bring those involved to account. He said although some individuals have been apprehended in certain cases, the response remains insufficient compared with the volume of concerns repeatedly highlighted in audit reports.

“Those repeated positive pronouncements are not matched with practical actions that are aimed at vigorously confronting corruption and bringing to book whoever gets involved,” said Musonda.

 He explained that the latest Auditor General’s Report should not be allowed to fade from public attention as discussions shift to other government matters, adding that citizens need to see comprehensive action on the issues exposed.

The ADEG Executive Director further stated that ministries and public institutions cited in the report should face thorough scrutiny, with the findings addressed and those found responsible held accountable in accordance with the law.

“For us, the actions on the report should be comprehensive and visible to citizens, including bringing those involved to book and putting measures in place to prevent such issues from happening again,” he said. Meanwhile, Musonda called for stronger procedures and safeguards in public institutions to close loopholes that allow the theft of public resources, particularly in sectors where weak controls can affect essential services.

 He said implementing the Auditor General’s recommendations is critical to preventing the repeated loss or misuse of public funds and ensuring that government resources are used for their intended purposes.

“The President’s pronouncements are very clear, and we agree with him, but we need to see more actions that will deter offenders and make people think twice before engaging in corrupt activities,” said Musonda.

 He urged the government to act decisively on the report, saying Zambia will struggle to eliminate recurring financial irregularities if audit findings continue to be documented without meaningful follow-up and preventive measures.

Article by Philip Sinkala