| Chapter 2: | Conceptual Issues in Definitions of Corruption and Good Governance |
Chapter Two
Conceptual Issues in Definitions of Corruption and Good Governance
2.0 Introduction
Whereas Chapter 1 spelt out the objectives and context of the book, setting out the underlying thesis, this chapter examines conceptual issues relating to the legal definitions of corruption and good governance. The chapter argues that the term good governance is simply a restatement of existing concepts pertaining to constitutionalism, rule of law, accountability, transparency and the doctrine of separation of powers. While corruption can be defined in legal terms, a legal definition of good governance remains elusive.
Under Zambia’s Anti-Corruption Commission Act 1996, the term corrupt is defined as ‘soliciting, accepting, obtaining, giving, promising or offering of a gratification by way of a bribe or other personal temptation or inducement, or the misuse or abuse of a public office for private advantage or benefit.’46