By Precious D Freeman
The Executive Director of the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) Anderson Maimen has disclosed that corruption poses a significant hindrance to African States in realizing Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
According to him, corruption is and remains a significant threat to democracy and democratic institutions, noting that the impact of corruption on the management of the COVID-19 pandemic, including the necessary resources, vaccines and personnel, is visible and cannot be ignored given its effect on the most vulnerable, poor and marginalized people.
He made the statement at a press briefing yesterday in commemoration of Anti-corruption Day (ACD) on the theme: “Strategies and Mechanisms for the Transparent Management of COVID-19 Funds” held at his Office in Monrovia.
“July 11 is African Anti-Corruption Day. For some time now, the Transparency International’s Movement has consistently reminded the AU Commission and members’ states about their obligations and commitments to fostering a robust, inclusive, and dynamic fight against corruption, a fight that does not protect confidants and cronies of the power-that-be, but impartially and timely investigates and prosecutes all corruption cases,” the CENTAL Boss asserted.
He furthered urged African Governments to move away from rhetorics to more tangible and impactful actions, including but not limited to strengthening anti-corruption legal frameworks, providing adequate financial and moral support to public integrity institutions, as well as increasing efforts to address immunity, ensuring that there are no untouchable individuals and groups in the fight against corruption.
“Since adoption of the Convention of African Union in 2006, African states have made significant efforts in the fight against corruption, including the establishment of national laws and the creation of anti-corruption agencies. However, major challenges still remain in recognition of the vast progress that has been made and cognizant of the need to continually reflect on approaches to end corruption,” he pointed out.
Maimen emphasized that the AU Commission is not mistaken in its decision, as Corruption remains the major hurdle to poverty reduction, sustainable and inclusive economic development, as well as peace and stability on the continent, especially in poor countries such as Liberia.
The CENTAL boss noted that Liberians, as an integral part of global and continental fights against corruption, Transparency International and her African Chapters, including the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), joined the AU Commission and other stakeholders in Commemorating July 11 as African Anti-Corruption Day.
He however called on AU Member States to strengthen “know your customer” rules to ensure that enablers of corruption and illicit financial flows, including professional enablers such as bankers, lawyers and accountants, are held accountable for actions that facilitate the loss of resources.
Maimen at the same time reminded African states to promote transparency and accountability in the delivery of basic services, land administration systems and justice systems and end impunity for those convicted of corrupt practices and also device mechanisms to collect citizens’ complaints and strengthen whistleblower’s protection, notably through the adoption of appropriate legislation in accordance with international standards.
