NALOLO PNUP member of parliament Imanga Wamunyima says the conviction of a health worker and a security guard by the Mongu Magistrates’ Court for theft of essential drugs will send a strong message to would-be offenders.
The lawmaker, however, says courts should mete out stiffer punishments to such culprits.
The Mongu Magistrates’ Court recently handed a nine months jail sentence to a male nurse and a security guard for theft of essential medicines in Nalolo District, Western Province.
According to a post shared on the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) Facebook page, Wednesday, Dan Mwale and Siyanda Kandandu were arrested and charged with theft by a public servant for stealing coartem.
In an interview, Wamunyima called for stiffer punishments against individuals involved in the theft of drugs.
“First of all, the judgement by the Magistrates’ Court sends a strong message to would-be offenders. I must state that Nalolo has continued to struggle with availability of essential and basic drugs even up to now. Citizens are still being referred to Pharmacies for basic drugs like Panadol as at a week ago when I was in the Constituency. Given that drugs are essential to safeguarding good health and livelihood, it must be noted that it is my expectation that the courts must mete [out] stiffer punishments to those who steal and deprive citizens of universal access to quality health care. I must mention that I am also disappointed that it has taken one year to have closure and judgement on this case. We urge the Executive arm of government through the office of the DPP and Ministry of Home Affairs to work closely with the judiciary in ensuring quick disposal of cases of sensitive nature. Justice delayed is justice denied,” said Wamunyima.
