President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has reassured the administration is determined to continue its fight against corruption. He made the statement in the message on the occasion of International Anti-Corruption Day.
Describing corruption as a scourge which undermines social and economic development, President Solih said prevention and prohibition of corruption is key to ensuring stability and growth and enforcing equal and fair justice for all. Stating that lack of integrity and corruption obstructs society from reaping the full benefits of precious resources, the president stated rooting out corruption is paramount for national development.
President Solih reaffirmed the commitment to prevent and prohibit corruption and cited the Zero Tolerance to Corruption policy as a testament to the fact. He highlighted to this end, the administration has initiated the declaration of assets of all political appointees and board members of State Companies as part of its first 100 day pledges.
President Solih further noted that the Protection of Whistle-blowers Act, recently signed into law, ensures the safety of people who proactively report and expose malfeasance and wrongdoing within the state and government. He also noted the establishment of the Corruption Reporting Portal, which allows for the anonymous reporting cases of corruption or malpractice in the public sector.
Assuring the administration would not tolerate any form of corruption, President Solih said the administration would submit a bill to the parliament seeking criminalisation of corruption, acceptance of bribery and attainment or facilitation of any form of undue advantage. The president said the fight against corruption begins with oneself and urged for the contribution of all in this endeavour. To this end, he said it was inaction that allows for the culture of corruption, despite the number of laws, regulations and investigative bodies which seek to root out the menace.
President Solih further urged everyone to embrace integrity, honesty and loyalty and not delay the reporting of any cases of corruption or wrongdoing by any employee in public office.