The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has emphasized that close collaboration between Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and the bureau is vital in the fight against corruption in Malawi.
ACB Principal Public Education Officer, Edward Kamvabingu, made the remarks on Friday in Karonga during an engagement meeting with CSOs trainers of trainers (ToTs) on corruption reporting mechanisms.
Kamvabingu said civil society organizations play a watchdog role in society and are key partners in exposing and preventing corrupt practices.
“Civil society organizations are watchdogs against corrupt activities in society. As advocates, CSOs have the responsibility to educate the public on the dangers of corruption and their role in reporting such acts. Therefore, a close working relationship with the bureau is crucial in effectively ending this malpractice,” he said.
He further noted that every citizen, whether in the public, private, or voluntary sector has a role to play in preventing and suppressing corruption, which continues to hinder socio-economic development in the country.
Kamvabingu explained that individuals can report corruption by visiting ACB offices in their districts, writing directly to the bureau, or using the toll-free line by dialing 113.
Addressing concerns over threats faced by whistleblowers, he said the bureau operates under the Whistleblowers Act, which protects complainants by concealing their identities when reporting corruption.
In his remarks, Karonga CSOs Vice Chairperson, Felix Katemula, commended the ACB for organizing the engagement meeting, describing it as critical in strengthening collaboration between the bureau and civil society.
“Let me also remind CSOs of the importance of maintaining integrity in the line of duty. We must continue implementing education and awareness-raising programmes on the dangers of corruption and the importance of reporting such malpractice through established community structures,” he said.
However, Katemula expressed concern over delays by the bureau in conducting investigations and prosecuting suspects, saying the situation undermines CSOs’ efforts in reporting corruption cases.
