President Hichilema Issues Strong Warning Against Stealing of Public Funds

President Hakainde Hichilema has delivered a stern message to newly appointed government officials, warning them against stealing public funds and emphasising that such actions deprive the nation of crucial development resources.

The warning came during a swearing-in ceremony for seven senior government officials, including permanent secretaries, a deputy auditor general, and an ambassador, at State House in Lusaka.

"You pocket that money, tomorrow you call yourself a businesswoman, no you're a thief! That's all you are," President Hichilema told the appointees. "And in this country we've been glorifying thieves. What is for the public is for the public, what is private is private."

The president emphasised his government's determination to end the theft of public funds and medical supplies from health facilities, stating that corruption limits resource distribution to critical sectors like education and healthcare.

"There's a duty... separating what is public resources and private, applying the resources at your disposal prudently. One kwacha must be stretched to deliver one kwacha plus value," he said.

President Hichilema also stressed the importance of confidentiality in public service, reminding the new officials that their roles represent "a sacred form of trust from the people."

The president highlighted economic improvements since his United Party for National Development (UPND) government took office in August 2021, including currency stabilisation and increased copper production.

"When you see the kwacha stabilising, it's not magic, it's a lot of work, reforms," he explained, noting that mining disputes previously tied up in court litigation had been resolved.

He also pointed to increased funding for the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and the resolution of unpaid council worker salaries that had been outstanding for 15 months.

The newly appointed officials acknowledged the challenges facing Zambia. Beatrice Chilomo highlighted the need to address "emerging challenges, poverty among other things, climate change and also equity."

Dr Max Choombe, taking over the fisheries and livestock portfolio, emphasised disease control as a priority: "We need to control the diseases because once we are done with disease control we will be able to export."

Deputy Auditor General Stella Nyonda pledged to ensure timely audits to improve public fund utilisation, while maintaining the highest standards of accountability.

President Hichilema's administration has made the fight against corruption a cornerstone of its governance agenda, as the country continues to work towards economic recovery and improved public service delivery.