Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister Jack Mwiimbu has directed the Zambia Police Service to work with institutions such as Smart Zambia to come up with simplified electronic payment platforms as a means to reduce corruption on the road.
Speaking at the official launch of the ‘No Bribes but Fines Campaign’ at Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka Tuesday, Mwiimbu said some motorists prefer to pay bribes to avoid the hustle of going to the bank to pay their fines.
He further directs all Traffic Officers to deal with erring motorists in the open, disclosing that there have been complaints about some officers charging erring motorists in secluded places such as motor vehicles.
Mwiimbu says it is in these vehicles that bribes exchange hands, hence the need to deal with matters in the open.
Mwiimbu emphasizes that corruption on the road is real, highlighting that the 2019 Zambia Bribe Payers Index (ZBPI) showed that the Police Traffic Section is still ranked among the top of those likely of taking bribes at 40.7 percent.
He says the situation is unacceptable, however charging that corruption cannot happen without the involvement of a motorist.
Mwiimbu cautions motorists that such behavior shall no longer be condoned, saying the launch of the ‘No Bribes but Fines Campaign’ marks the beginning of an era where corruption shall no longer be condoned.
Mwiimbu has since directed the Police Service to work closely with the Road Transport and Safety Agency – RTSA and other stakeholders like The Anti-Corruption Commission – ACC to ensure that all motorists comply with traffic regulations.
At the same event, Director General of The Anti-Corruption Commission, Gilbert Phiri said it was unacceptable for an officer who receives a salary from government to openly engage in collecting bribes in a civilized society.
He says the vice must come to an end because some Zambians have gone to early graves due to road traffic accidents stemming from corruption.
The Director General nonetheless recognizes efforts made by the Police Service through the integrity building program, to implement measures for dealing with corruption within and outside the institution.
Phiri explains the service in conjunction with the ACC and Transparency International Zambia (TIZ) have developed policies aimed at combating unethical conduct within and outside the Police Service, which must be put in real practice.
He further calls for the dissemination of information on the procedures of obtaining services and settling fines charged on offences.
Phiri says the public need to know their responsibilities and obligations in maintaining law and order, adding that motorists must comply with traffic regulations in order to avoid incidences of bribery.
He says the ACC has dedicated the Month of November to conducting interventions targeted at dealing with corruption in the road traffic sector and we has named this activity, the “No Bribes but Fines” Campaign. This is contained in a report published by Byta FM.