Party leader, Mumba, fears loss of confidence in anti-corruption war if courts continue to falter in justice delivery

New Hope Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD) leader, Nevers Mumba, has urged the courts of law to expedite and dispose of all pending corruption cases before the corruption fight is completely discredited.

While opening Parliament twice under his administration, President Hakainde Hichilema announced that corruption cases should start and finish within 90 days.

Mumba said this in a statement issued in Lusaka on Friday.

He noted that the announcement by the President had not been adhered to despite the pronouncement being both policy and government assurance.

“We strongly urge the Chief Justice to derive a workable schedule that shall answer this gaping question of justice delivery,” Mumba advised.

He stated that the fight against corruption was an essential component of accountability and the rule of law in a democracy.

Mumba said the longer corruption cases took, the more those cases became branded as political persecution.

“This announcement was critical and well advised. It is said, Justice delayed is Justice denied. Speedy court processes are good for both the state and the accused,” he stated.

Mumba said the state would be more efficient and the accused would get a verdict in good time so that, if acquitted, they can get back to a productive life within a short time.

He argued that the country was failing in the fight against corruption.

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