‘Set up inquiry on resource mismanagement’

A COMMISSION of Inquiry into public resource management must be set up to investigate the true extent of corruption as doing so will send a signal to the international development community of Zambia’s lack of tolerance of economic mismanagement.

This approach will strongly contribute to institutional strengthening as well as efficient delivery of public services more broadly, according to Economist Gabriel Pollen.

Dr Pollen said this in his write up on “Gliding the winds of hope: Beyond rhetoric and towards sound economic management in the Hichilema administration.”

He stressed that the approach would restore confidence in the public institutions.

“Firstly, this will send a strong message that nobody is above the law, and an unshaken reminder, even to the new administration itself, that the rule of law embedded in the constitution frames the governance and polity of the Zambian society.

“Secondly, this will help to establish the accurate spread, extent and channels of economic mismanagement experienced in the previous administration,” he said.

Dr Pollen stressed the need for public institutions to be insulated from political interference so that they could carry out their mandate more objectively.

“To restore confidence in the public institutions, a fight against corruption has been declared but this must move beyond political windowdressing.

“To facilitate and deliver this agenda, a Commission of Inquiry into public resource management must be set up to investigate the true extent of corruption,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr Pollen indicated that a Taskforce on Economic matters would be essential to deliver economic prosperity to the doorsteps of Zambians.