PPCA saddened with public’s ignorance about its work

The Police Public Complaints Authority (PPCA) has bemoaned the low understanding of its existence and mandate by members of the public.

PPCA chairman James Mwanakatwe said this today in Serenje when he paid a courtesy call on Serenje District Commissioner Charles Mwelwa.

Mr. Mwanakatwe said PPCA will this year go flat out to sensitize members of the public in Zambia in order for it to effectively discharge its duties.

He expressed optimist a vigorous sensitisation campaign will raise awareness about the work of the PPCA which will ultimately lead to improved service delivery of the police service.

Mr. Mwanakatwe said it was important that members of the public know about the police complaints body which he said would help promote accountability and transparency in the police service.

Meanwhile, Mr. Mwanakatwe has thanked government for increasing funding to PPCA in this year’s budget saying this will enable the authority to effectively carry out this year’s work plan.

He said the increased funding was testimony of government’s commitment to promoting accountability and transparency in institutions of governance in the country.

He said police need to be professional because they play an important role in maintaining law and order which is a prerequisite to the economic development of the country.

Mr. Mwanakatwe however regretted that there has been misconception as some police officers view PPCA as a body which interferes with their duties.

“It is not only members of the public who do not know about the PPCA but some police officers also think we are there to interfere with their duties which is not the case,” he explained.

He said to the contrary, PPCA helps create better relations between police and members of the public by building confidence in members of the community in police work through mediation between the two parties.

And Serenje District Commissioner, Charles Mwelwa thanked CCPA for visiting his district saying the visit would accord people in the area to know where to take their complaints they have about the conduct of police officers.

The PPCA is in Central province to sensitize members of the public about its work.