Stop shielding corrupt elements, Western Province PS tells law enforcement agencies
By Staff Reporter
WESTERN Province permanent secretary Mwangala Liomba says corruption siphons collective wealth into individual pockets thereby depriving the masses of quality fulfilment of their general human needs.
During commemorations to mark the International Day against Corruption held at Mongu’s Lewanika Schools of Nursing and Midwifery on Saturday, therefore called on law enforcement agencies not to shield anyone who shall be found wanting in the fight against corruption as they strive to serve humanity.
“If left unchecked, corruption poses a huge threat to the attainment of the SDGs (Sustainability Development Goals) and the development of our economy because corruption siphons the collective wealth of the country into individual pockets thereby depriving the masses of quality services to education, proper healthcare, infrastructure and the general basic human needs,” Liomba said. “Negligence of the above-stated may result into high poverty levels, social injustice, and distortion in the cost of goods and services.”
Quoting SDG goal number 16, which calls for the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development and the provision of access to justice for all as well as the construction of effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels, Liomba urged for a reduction in illicit financial flows, organised and the enhancement in the return of stolen assets.
He expressed shock at the recent revelations of misappropriation and misapplication of public funds as contained in the 2016 Auditor General’s report and further proposed the safeguarding of today’s resources so that future generations benefit from them.
“The people of Zambia are demanding for timely and swift interventions in the fight against corruption and law enforcement agencies should not shield anyone who shall be found wanting in the quest to service humanity,” said Liomba who is also the controlling officer for the province. “Allowing corruption to thrive is allowing our economy to perish.”
