The Office of the Public Protector Zambia (OPPZ) successfully intervened in securing compensation for more than 850 residents who were displaced during the rehabilitation works on the Chinsali-Nakonde section of the Great North Road.
The affected residents, who had settled within the designated 100-meter road reserve, were earmarked for compensation under the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) in line with the Financing Agreement between the African Development Bank and the Government of the Republic of Zambia.
However, despite the commitments made, a significant number of the affected residents went unpaid for an extended period due to delays linked to insufficient funding.
The complainants sought the intervention of the Public Protector Zambia after experiencing prolonged non-payment, despite their displacement from the area to pave way for the road rehabilitation project.
Following the investigations, it was established that while some residents had been compensated earlier, over 850 people were still awaiting payment. The Public Protector engaged the Road Development Agency (RDA), urging them to expedite the mobilization of funds and ensure that all affected residents were fairly compensated without undue delay.
The investigations further revealed that the delay in compensating the affected individuals was as a result of the budgetary limitations despite partial disbursements being made towards the outstanding amounts.
Through continued follow-ups, the Office of the Public Protector ensured that all affected residents were eventually paid their dues in line with the Resettlement Action Plan.
The intervention by the OPPZ not only managed to resolve this long-standing issue but also underscored the Officeβs critical role in addressing maladministration and safeguarding the rights of citizens, especially when it comes to holding public institutions accountable for service delivery.
If you or someone you know is facing a similar challenge involving a public institution or any administrative concern affecting your rights, report the matter to the Office of the Public Protector Zambia for timely redress.
You can lodge a complaint by visiting us physically at our Headquarters in Lusaka or through any of our Provincial Offices. Alternatively, you may report through our online platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, email or via our website.
