Anti-Corruption Commission Director General Resigns

President Hakainde Hichilema summoned the Director general of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to State House on 16 July and asked him to resign.

Mr Thom Trevor Shamakamba resigned from his position later that day.

The Solicitor General, Marshal Muchende, was asked to investigate the allegations of corruption which had been made against him.

One particularly controversial issue was Shamakamba’s decision to grant immunity to the former Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary, Ronald Simwinga, who was implicated in the misappropriation of K69 million.

One ACC board member, O’Brien Kaaba had recently accused the Commission of shielding corruption rather than fighting against it.

He was appointed to the role by President Hichilema in 2022, and has driven a strong focus on addressing corruption and promoting ethical practices in government through his tenure.

During a speech on 18 May earlier this year, Hichilema hinted at the frustration at how the commission was being operated, and warned those who were not ready to commit and dedicate themselves to the fight against corruption, not to accept appointments.

The government is expected to announce a successor who will continue the effort of the ACC to uphold transparency and accountability amongst those with positions of power in Hichilema’s administration.