By Deogratias Mmana:
The government has disclosed that it has not made any move on Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Director General (DG) Martha Chizuma’s contract which is ending next month.
It is common practice in government that when a contract is expiring, the employer and employee exchange communication three months to the expiry date regarding the next course of action surrounding the contract.
In this case, nothing of the sort has happened.
Minister of Information Moses Kunkuyu said the government is aware that it needs to have a Director General in place at the ACB for effective implementation of business.
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He said the government will follow processes for ensuring that there is no vacancy in the office of the DG which are guided by law.
“Government cannot take a unilateral stand on a contract before certain things have taken place. The contract in question has two parties. While the government could be interested in renewing the contract, the officer must express willingness to serve in that capacity.
“On the other hand, if the government has an alternative mind, then steps must be taken to ensure that the position is filled as quickly as possible,” Kunkuyu said.
He further said: “As for now, these things have not happened and the nation will be informed in due course as the contract, which is still running, comes to an end.”
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In an earlier interview with Times, Chizuma said: “Well, the fact is, my three year contract is expiring on May 31st. A few weeks from now! If they don’t renew, this is bye!”
Last week, civil society organizations asked Chakwera to not politicise the appointment of the new Director General.
In a statement endorsed by 17 civil society organisations and signed by National Advocacy Platform (NAP) Chairperson Benedicto Kondowe, the organisations urged the government to ensure the selection process is free from political interference.
“Politicization weakens anti-corruption institutions and undermines public trust,” they said.
In a recent paper, titled ‘The Conundrum of Independence’, which she co-authored, Chizuma reflected on her leadership at the bureau against the backdrop of legal challenges and personal attacks.
