Zambia’s Hichilema Axes Corruption Watchdog Amid Scandal

By Ollus Ndomu

President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia has this week taken a decisive action against corruption by dissolving the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Board, effective immediately. The move comes in response to severe allegations against the recently resigned Director General Thom Shamakamba and the ACC’s legal chambers.

As of Thursday, the dissolution has removed key figures, including board chairperson Musa Mwenye, vice chairperson Ireen Lamba, Seventh Day Adventist clergy Dr. Tommy Namitondo, and whistleblower Dr. O’Brien Kaaba. The decision follows Dr. Kaaba’s public call for a complete overhaul of the commission, citing corruption and mismanagement.

Dr. Kaaba had previously raised concerns about corruption within the ACC, which led to Shamakamba’s resignation. The President’s decision to dissolve the board has sparked a mix of reactions. 

Governance and Development Advocates Zambia have praised Hichilema for his commitment to transparency, while also urging caution from whistleblowers to ensure evidence-based allegations.

“The President’s move shows a commitment to clean governance, but it’s crucial that all involved provide proper documentation to support their claims,” said Elias Mulenga, Executive Director of Governance and Development Advocates Zambia.

The government has stated that efforts are underway to ensure a thorough investigation into the allegations. The public is closely watching to ensure that the anti-corruption drive does not become a tool for political maneuvering but genuinely serves to restore integrity.

Zambians continue to call for justice and a transparent investigation to ensure that corruption is effectively addressed and that the integrity of the anti-corruption framework is preserved. 

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Ollus Ndhomu

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