Government Introduces No-Bribes But Fines Campaign

This morning the government launched their No-Bribes But Fines campaign.

The campaign looks to encourage offending motorists to pay fines as opposed to offering bribes to law-enforcement officers.

The campaign was announced by Ambrose Lufuma, Home Affairs And Internal Security Minister.

Under the new campaign, both motorists and officers will be punished if found giving or taking bribes.

Mr Lufuma has directed Zambian police at the Road Transport And Safety Agency to ensure that those motorists who fail to adhere to rules are prosecuted effectively.

In a bid to improve transparency, he said, “I am again directing the Zambia police service to ensure that all traffic officers deal with erring motorists in the open. I further direct the Zambia Police Service to ensure that traffic offences and the corresponding fines are displayed at strategic conspicuous points at police stations and traffic checkpoints.”

Further, the minister encouraged a partnership between Zambian police and the Smart Zambia Institute, among other stakeholders, to work with each other to crack down on the issue.

He also said that those institutions will be working together to create digital platforms to make it easier for fines to be paid.

Additionally, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Director General, Gilbert Phiri, described that motorist had lost their lives due to the actions of corrupt police officers.

He also warned against officers taking bribes saying that it was unacceptable for any police officer to take bribes from members of the public.

Inspector General, Lemmy Kajoba, also outlined his commitment to stamping out corruption in the police.

He said that already Zambian police are distancing themselves from officers who had been receiving bribes, explaining that any officers known to take bribes will be removed from the force.

Additionally, the ACC was commended by Transparency International Zambia for their work on the campaign.