THE statement by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) on the rampant theft of life-saving medicines in Zambia is a sobering reflection of the anger and despair felt by many ordinary citizens.
The theft of essential medical supplies – most of which were donated to support the poor and vulnerable – is not merely a case of administrative failure, but a deep moral crisis.
The government must stop living in denial and take decisive, transparent action. Anything short of that further erodes public trust and dignity.
The gravity of this scandal cannot be overstated. According to revelations shared by the US government, which led to the suspension of a staggering US$50 million in medical aid, stolen medicines include critical supplies for HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis – conditions that disproportionately affect Zambia’s poorest.
The US Embassy in Lusaka was specific and unequivocal in its findings: the theft was widespread, systematic, and persisted over four years, with 95 percent of pharmacies found selling stolen, US-donated drugs.
These are not vague allegations; they are data-backed, diplomatically declared findings.
Instead of responding with clarity, urgency, and accountability, government leaders have defaulted to blame-shifting – pointing fingers at previous administrations and systemic weaknesses.
This is not leadership. Zambians are not interested in political gymnastics or excuses; they want solutions, justice, and protection of their right to health.
JCTR’s call for the immediate public release of the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) forensic audit is not just a demand for transparency – it is a demand for justice.
The failure to release the audit fuels public suspicion that there are high-level individuals being protected.
If the government is serious about rooting out corruption, it must name and prosecute those involved, regardless of their political affiliation or official rank. Shielding culprits will only compound the betrayal.
Moreover, whistleblowers – often the unsung heroes in exposing such scandals – must be protected through a strengthened Public Interest Disclosure Act.
Institutions like the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) should receive adequate resources and independence to follow the trail of theft wherever it leads.
Reforms must go beyond lip service; they must restore the broken chain of trust between government and citizens.
JCTR’s concerns are not isolated. They mirror the everyday frustrations of Zambians who queue for hours at clinics only to be told there are no medicines – while others profit in the shadows.
When life-saving drugs meant for the sick are looted and sold on the black market, it is not just a financial loss – it is a loss of life, dignity, and hope.
This is a moment for the government to show that it stands with the people. Accountability must not be optional. Transparency must not be delayed.
The poor and sick cannot be collateral damage in a system that rewards impunity. It is time for action, not excuses as demanded by the JCTR.
Let the circus stop.
