Commentator questions civil society opposition to corruption probes

Social media commentator Onjezani Kenani has challenged civil society organisations opposing Parliament’s planned public inquiries into public institutions, questioning what is wrong with investigating corruption.

Kenani’s comments follow a press briefing by civil society organisations, led by Robert Mkwezalamba, calling on Parliament to respect the independence of other arms of government.

The briefing came after Speaker of Parliament Sameer Suleman announced that Parliament would use its oversight mandate to institute public inquiries into public entities accused of failing to provide adequate and quality services.

In a Facebook post, Kenani questioned why civil society groups would seek to frustrate Parliament from exercising its constitutional oversight responsibilities.

He wrote: “What is wrong with investigating corruption? Let Parliament play its oversight role in peace.”

Kenani said he had listened to arguments against Parliament’s oversight initiative but found none convincing.

He wrote: “I have listened to every argument against Parliament’s oversight and none of the arguments makes sense. Not one.”

Suleman’s announcement had earlier attracted criticism from DPP secretary general Peter Mukhito. Government spokesperson Shadreck Namalomba also weighed in with strongly worded remarks against Kenani.

Civil society organisations have since joined the debate, warning Parliament against overstepping its oversight mandate.