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Zambian Constitutional Law

ACC (Anti-Corruption Commission)

Zambia's ACC investigates and prosecutes corruption, bribery, and abuse of public office. It can receive reports from the public, conduct investigations, and refer cases to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Legal Definition

The Anti-Corruption Commission is established under the Anti-Corruption Act No. 3 of 2012. It is an independent body mandated to investigate, arrest, and prosecute corruption offences in both public and private sectors. Key functions: receiving and investigating corruption complaints; gathering evidence and interviewing suspects; arresting and detaining suspects pending prosecution; applying for court orders to freeze and confiscate assets; and sensitising the public on anti-corruption measures. The ACC defines corruption broadly: soliciting or accepting bribes, abuse of office for personal gain, nepotism, conflict of interest, and misuse of public funds. Both the giver and receiver of a bribe commit an offence. Anyone can report corruption to the ACC confidentially. Reports can be made in person at ACC offices (Lusaka and all provincial capitals), by phone, or online at acc.org.zm. Whistleblowers are protected under the Act — identity of informants is kept confidential and victimisation of informants is itself an offence.

📖 Constitutional / Statutory Basis: Anti-Corruption Act No. 3 of 2012; Constitution of Zambia, Article 62 (Anti-Corruption Commission)

Practical Example

A teacher is told she must pay a bribe to get her child enrolled in a public school. She refuses and reports the headmaster to the ACC. The ACC investigates and charges the headmaster with soliciting a bribe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I report corruption anonymously to the ACC in Zambia?
You can report to the ACC online at acc.org.zm, by toll-free phone at 0800 300001, or in person. The ACC keeps informant identities strictly confidential, and victimising an informant is itself a criminal offence.
Is bribery only a crime for government officials in Zambia?
No. The Anti-Corruption Act covers both public and private sector corruption. Offering or accepting a bribe in any context — business, education, healthcare — is an offence.

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