By Francis Chipalo
The Anti – Corruption Commission (ACC) has disclosed that failure to comply with the agency is making it difficult for the institution to fight corruption in the country.
And the agency has disclosed that both private and public institutions have been giving the ACC challenges to investigate corruption cases.
The agency was however unable to disclose which institutions have given it challenges.
Responding to questions from journalists at a joint briefing with the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) Thursday afternoon, ACC director general Dalphane Chabu has appealed to institutions to comply with the agency when called upon.
Meanwhile, Chabu has told the media that the agency has arrested five RTSA officers for allegedly being involved in corrupt practices.
Chabu said the officers were arrested following investigations on allegations of soliciting and accepting bribes from motorists, or overlooking traffic offenses.
She said other allegations include issuing of test certificates without physical inspection, issuing licenses and providing other favours contrary to the Road Traffic Act Chapter 464 of the laws of Zambia.
Among the arrested are Janet Chisha a registry clerk, Joel Banda an examiner, Rhoda Chiyesu who is employed as a traffic inspector.
She named Constance Masupelo a road traffic inspector and Liya Kunda a cashier as the other two arrested suspects, adding that all the five have been released on police bond pending court appearance.
“I wish to send a strong and very clear warning to officials who exploit their positions and public trust to engage in corrupt practices. Corruption does not pay,” Chabu added.
Speaking at the same briefing, RTSA chief executive officer Eng. Amon Mweemba said the agency does not condone or protect any individual found wanting for soliciting, malpractice, and corruption in the delivery of services to the public.
“I would like to further send a strong warning to any staff members who may be involved in corrupt activities and indeed other illegal activities that the law will visit them and they will not be protected by RTSA,” he warned.
