The Ministry of Justice has shortlisted 11 candidates for the post of Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) director-general, which became vacant after the expiry of Martha Chizuma’s contract in June this year.
In a written response to a questionnaire yesterday, the ministry’s spokesperson Frank Namangale confirmed the development, but could not reveal the identity of the candidates.
The interviews come against a background of analysts urging government to ensure that the recruitment process is free from political influence.
But Namangale parried away assertions of political influence, stating: “Panelists are drawn from different sectors to ensure that the process is free from political influence.”
While Namangale did not reveal the names on the shortlist, inside sources indicated that the candidates include ACB acting director-general Hillary Chilomba and Directorate of Public Prosecutions head of criminal litigation Dziko Malunda.
Chilomba did not respond to our questions before press time while Malunda expressed ignorance, saying: “I have not received any invitation to that effect. Will let you know if I get one.”
In a response to our questionnaire, governance advocate Charles Kajoloweka welcomed the recruitment process and emphasised the need for a thorough and transparent approach to secure a capable leader for the ACB.
He said: “It is only our hope that those who will be engaged in the recruitment process are going to be objective and robust to ensure that we get the best candidate out of this process.
“We have no doubt that ACB, where it is now, needs very robust and strong leadership if we are to win the fight against corruption.”
Kajoloweka, who is also Youth and Society executive director, highlighted that the ACB is struggling with public trust is due to challenges in prosecuting high-profile corruption cases.
Under Section 5 (1) of the Corrupt Practices Act, the name of the successful candidate will be submitted to the President who will make the appointment “subject to confirmation by the Public Appointments Committee of Parliament”.
