Opposition parties call for full scale commission of inquiry to unravel rumblings in anti-corruption agency

The United Kwacha Alliance (UKA) has welcomed the resignation of Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Director-General, Thom Shamakamba, and called for a commission of inquiry to investigate the extent of corruption within the ACC.

Shamakamba’s resignation followed an exposé by Dr. O’Brian Kaaba, a member of the ACC Board, and subsequent public outrage regarding the state of corruption at the Commission.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Wednesday, UKA Chairperson, Sakwiba Sikota, suggested that Shamakamba’s resignation appeared to be a negotiated settlement, possibly to deflect attention from broader issues within the ACC.

“Though the evidence provided by Dr. Kaaba called for the immediate suspension or dismissal of Shamakamba and the establishment of a commission of inquiry, his resignation feels like a scenario where the truth dies with the fall guy,” Sikota stated.

Despite the resignation, Sikota emphasized the need for a commission of inquiry to allow Zambians to understand the depth of the corruption and to provide recommendations.

He proposed that the commissioners be individuals without any ties to the current regime.

The United Liberal Party leader suggested that the inquiry hearings be open to the public and broadcast live to ensure transparency.

Sikota also recommended that the findings be released to the public simultaneously with the government’s receipt of the report.

“This will provide healing, closure and assurance to the public that the leadership entrusted with the care and welfare of Zambians is serious about addressing issues that negatively affect their welfare,” he noted.

Sikota further stated that Shamakamba’s resignation should serve as a warning to others in the UPND government who are underperforming due to corruption or incompetence.

He urged these individuals to reflect on their actions and consider resigning voluntarily.

“We call for the President to examine his own conscience to ensure he is governing according to the promises on which he was elected, representing the collective trust and aspirations of the Zambian people,” Sikota said.

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