Financial Crime World

CABO DELGADO PROVINCE ROCKED BY ISLAMIC INSURGENCY; OFFICIALS MUM ON CONFLICT

The northern Mozambican province of Cabo Delgado has been plagued by a raging conflict led by Islamic insurgents, leaving many wondering about the lack of transparency and information from official sources. Despite having laws in place to protect freedom of information and whistleblowers, the government’s silence on the matter has raised eyebrows.

WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTIONS UNDER THREAT

Mozambique’s Right to Freedom of Information Act (2014) and Press Law (1991) aim to promote transparency and accountability. Article 3 of the Press Law explicitly grants citizens the right to access information, disseminate opinions, and ideas. However:

  • Exemptions for state secrets and private affairs have led some to question how corruption can be exposed.
  • The law’s effectiveness is hindered by institutional weaknesses and a lack of resources.

JUDICIAL WEAKNESSES HAMPER ENFORCEMENT

The Mozambican judiciary is plagued by:

  • Underpaid judges prone to bribery
  • Political interference from the ruling Frelimo party
  • Lack of resources and training for judges, hindering effective enforcement of whistleblower protections

WHISTLEBLOWERS AT RISK

Whistleblowers are not adequately protected due to:

  • Financial constraints
  • Inadequate relocation and reassignment of identities, leaving witnesses vulnerable to retaliation and intimidation

CALL FOR REFORMS

To improve the situation, the Mozambican state must:

  • Prioritize upskilling the judiciary
  • Apply stricter criteria for judge appointments
  • Ensure proper resources for agencies safeguarding whistleblower protections
  • Launch public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the dangers of corruption

INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS NOT MET

Mozambique has enacted legislation to combat corruption, but:

  • Enforcement remains lax due to elite involvement
  • The country’s commitment to transparency is evident in laws like the Whistleblower Protection Law and the Law on Public Probity, but more needs to be done to ensure compliance with international standards

CENTRE FOR PUBLIC INTEGRITY

The Centro de Integridade Publica (CIP), established in 2005, works towards promoting transparency and good governance through research and advocacy. With offices in Maputo, CIP offers a valuable resource for those seeking information on corruption and whistleblower protection.

CONTACT INFORMATION