Parliament committee confirms FIU director

The Public Appointments and Asset Declaration Committee of Parliament has confirmed Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) director Atuweni-Tupochile Phiri to continue discharging her duties three months after her appointment.

Chairperson of the committee Lingson Belekanyama confirmed the appointment, but said the public will get information through the official channels.

“It is true that Madam Phiri was interviewed yesterday [Monday], but the results will be available in due course. ,” he said.

Phiri, who had been in an acting capacity since 2012,  said earlier during meetings with the Public Account Committee (PAC)of Parliament over Cashgate progress, that the acting capacity hindered her from discharging her duties.

The Public Accounts Committee also highlighted that the FIU was toothless in the fight against corruption as it is merely an administrative body. He then appealed to government to empower Phiri.

The FIU is a government organ established under statutes and powers indicated in the Money Laundering, Proceeds of Serious Crimes and Terrorist Financing Act, Number 11 of 2006.

The Act was assented to by the President on August 24, 2006 and the FIU was established and became operational in July 2007.