By NATION REPORTER
THE investigative wings should not act like toothless tigers in combating fraudulent activities but ensure that reported cases of irregularities are pursued vigorously, Governance activist Joseck Kunda has said.
In an interview, Mr Kunda who is also Movement for Promoting National Values and Principles (MPNVP) chief executive officer said the attitude and response of the institutions tasked to carry out investigations leaves much to be desired.
Last week on Wednesday, the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) said it was still investigating fraud allegations against a Chinese company, Hua Jiang Investment which happened almost 10 years ago.
It is alleged that Hua Jiang Investment was awarded contracts between 2014 and 2016 by Government to build 18 schools but failed to execute most of the projects despite being paid.
DEC public relations officer, Theresa Katongo who confirmed that they had instituted investigations however said she could not divulge much for fear of jeorpadising the investigation.
But Mr Kunda said it was disappointing that DEC takes too long to investigate cases which in some instances end up without a clear outcome despite efforts by the public to report.
He said the delaying of the fraud investigations was an impediment to implementing justice.
“We are left in total despair wondering the kind of investigations taking over eight consecutive years! It is very sobering and painful looking at the levels of complacency and naivety that has been embraced by relevant authorities,” Mr Kunda said.
He added, “Honestly the attitude and response of the institutions tasked to carry out investigations leaves much to be desired.”
Mr Kunda also said negligence on the part of the investigative wings were failing President Edgar Lungu whose desire is to see a corrupt-free nation.
“We can confidently conclude that many investigative wings are failing President Lungu whose desire is to see a corrupt-free nation. They are a letdown,” he said.
He said the commission must “bite the corrupt people and companies” to secure the national interest and not to be seen obstructing justice.
Mr Kunda further said the pending cases were causing restless, panic and uneasiness among the citizens, as well as contributing to reducing confidence and public trust in the government itself.
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