Mozambique Minister addresses illicit enrichment and wealth accumulation

Mozambique's Minister of Transport and Logistics, João Matlombe, has called for the normalization of wealth accumulation among citizens, arguing that being wealthy should not be viewed as a conflict with the Public Prosecutor's Office. Speaking at the 22nd Economic Briefing organized by the Confederation of Economic Associations of Mozambique (CTA) in Maputo, Matlombe stated that while citizens have the right to prosper, such wealth must be built on legal foundations rather than illicit acts.

The Minister expressed concern that some citizens fear becoming wealthy due to perceived persecution by the Public Prosecutor's Office. He emphasized that the principle of legality should guide investigations to ensure fair treatment for all.

In response to these remarks, the Centro de Integridade Pública (CIP) stated that while wealth accumulation is acceptable, it must not occur at the expense of public assets or the state treasury. The civil society organization reminded that the Penal Code criminalizes illicit enrichment, noting that public servants who acquire assets incompatible with their lawful income are subject to imprisonment and fines.