In a surprising turn of events, Zambian President Hakinde Hichilema has dismissed the entire board of the country’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) following accusations of corruption against the body itself. This decision comes shortly after the resignation of ACC head Thom Shamakamba, who, along with the country’s solicitor-general Marshal Muchende, faced allegations of accepting bribes. Both men strongly deny these claims.
The accusations suggest that ACC officials have been taking payments from politicians under investigation in exchange for amnesty. These allegations were brought to light by former ACC board member O’Brien Kaaba, who criticized the commission for making “legally senseless settlements” that shield corrupt individuals from justice.
Kaaba argues that the issues within the ACC extend beyond the dismissed board members and calls for a comprehensive reform of the institution. In response to these claims, Muchende has sued Kaaba for defamation.
The Zambian presidency stated that dissolving the board was necessary to renew the ACC’s “sacred mandate.” This development is particularly significant given that President Hichilema’s administration has been investigating officials from the previous government for alleged corruption since coming to power three years ago.
The manner in which Shamakamba’s resignation was announced has led to speculation about whether he was actually fired, adding another layer of complexity to the unfolding situation.