Lusaka, Zambia – Former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has strongly criticized President Hakainde Hichilema’s directive for Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) to operate discreetly, arguing that this move undermines transparency, accountability, and investor confidence.
In a statement shared on his official page, Dr. Lungu expressed concern that President Hichilema’s decision to silence the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) and LEAs contradicts democratic principles.
“This is very disturbing and worrisome because it undermines the tenets of good governance and political integrity under Article 8 of our Republican Constitution,” Lungu stated.
The former head of state recalled that during his administration, LEAs and the FIC were allowed to publicize their investigations, enabling Zambians to hold the government accountable. He noted that this transparency gave opposition leaders, civil society organizations, and citizens the opportunity to critique his government.
US $3 Billion Illicit Outflow
Dr. Lungu also raised concerns about the reported US $3 billion illicit financial outflow in 2024, which was first flagged by the US Ambassador to Zambia, Michael Gonzalez. He challenged President Hichilema to explain what measures have been taken to address the issue.
“This is a lot of money for the President to remain mute about,” Lungu emphasized.
The former president further questioned why the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) had confirmed ongoing investigations into government officials but refused to disclose their identities, allegedly to “protect their integrity.”
“I recall that during my time in office, my brother was at the forefront not only calling for the publication of such investigations but also demanding that ministers under probe be suspended or even fired,” Lungu stated.
Call for Greater Transparency
Dr. Lungu urged President Hichilema to strengthen transparency within the FIC and LEAs instead of suppressing public access to information on corruption cases.
“The President must support LEAs and FIC to expose and freely report corruption cases and suspicious transactions in the agriculture, mining, energy, defence, education, and health sectors, among others. This is what will rebuild the waning investor confidence in Zambia!”
The former president’s remarks come amid growing concerns about corruption allegations within the government, with critics warning that shielding high-profile officials from public scrutiny could erode trust in state institutions.
