Strengthening Transparency and Accountability in the Management of Recovered Criminal Assets!
The proposed Bill seeks to establish a robust framework for the management of seized and forfeited criminal assets, including the establishment of a Criminal Asset Management Agency to oversee their management and administration.
We believe this legislation is an important step towards addressing the wastage, deterioration and possible loss of value of recovered assets while they await disposal. More importantly, it provides an opportunity to strengthen transparency, accountability and responsible stewardship in the management of assets recovered through the fight against corruption and other criminal activities.
As TAL, we recognise that asset recovery should not end with the seizure or forfeiture of illegally acquired property. There must also be effective systems to ensure that these assets are properly managed, protected and ultimately serve the public interest.
The submissions brought together key stakeholders, including the Southern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, the ACC Director General, the Choma Mayor, traditional leaders, government institutions and civil society organisations.
Recovering stolen assets is one thing; ensuring they are properly managed and accounted for is another. Both are essential to achieving justice and accountability.
