By Chisomo Phiri

Speaker of Parliament Catherine Gotani Hara says Parliament is always committed to make Malawi a nation free from corruption activities.

Speaking on Wednesday during Parliament’s Anti-Corruption Day commemoration, the speaker indicated that the general assembly has a full responsibility of making sure that institutions fighting corruption such as the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) are allocated enough resources if the country is to win the battle against the vice.

Hara said apart from the allocation of resources parliament has also an oversight role whereby it makes checks and balances to ensure transparency and accountability in the way public resources are used.

She said:”It is also our responsibility to speak against corruption and raise awareness in our respective constituencies.”

Hara also warned that Parliament will not relent or spare anyone in the fight against corruption.

“As the legislative arm of government we also need to do more on the oversight role to make sure that public resources are utilised in line with public interests and all public officers should be held accountable.

“As Parliament, we will not relent and we will not spare anyone in this fight. “She said.

On his part,the Clerk of Parliament, Fiona Kalemba, reiterated the Speaker’s sentiments that Parliament will not slow down in the fight against corruption.

“At Parliament, we are not slowing down. In fact, to the contrary, we are pushing forward with even greater focus and a lot of energy. Our commitment to this cause remains resolute and our progress speaks volumes about our dedication.” Said the Clerk.

Kalemba further described the Anti-Corruption Bureau Day Commemoration as a symbol for Parliament’s unwavering determination and the significant strides that the institution has made in the fight against the vice.

The Clerk also highlighted measures that Parliament has taken to curb corruption which she said includes establishment of various committees which are raising awareness on the evils of fraud and corruption.

The commemoration was part of the Silver Jubilee for the Anti-Corruption Bureau(ACB).

Parliament of Malawi through its Institutional Integrity Committee commemorated its first Anti-Corruption Day on 30th November, 2022.

The Anti-Corruption Day has become an annual event and provides an opportunity to Members of Parliament and staff to show their commitment towards the fight against corruption.