Strengthening the Anti-Corruption Front: ACC Commissioner Highlights Six Years of Progress
2024, Francis Ben Kaifala, the Commissioner of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), provided a comprehensive overview of the significant strides made by the commission in its relentless battle against corruption over the past six years.
In an address, Commissioner Kaifala emphasized the unwavering commitment of the ACC to combat corruption and outlined the various accomplishments achieved during this period. He underscored that the commission's efforts are not only subject to internal scrutiny but also face evaluation from external entities.
Kaifala revealed that a team established by the British Consortium of Public Management and Finance recently conducted a comprehensive evaluation of Sierra Leone's anti-corruption efforts. The findings acknowledged the persistence of bribery as a challenge but also recognized noteworthy progress in the fight against corruption.
"Various entities, including international and local bodies, are monitoring and rating us. Given the multitude of assessments, we prioritize a select few due to their significance," explained Kaifala, highlighting the accountability and transparency integral to their operations.
The Commissioner shared that external bodies, such as the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), have validated the effectiveness of their anti-corruption endeavors. This external validation has substantially bolstered public confidence in the ACC's commitment to combating corruption. Kaifala proudly stated, "The overall prevalence of corruption has witnessed a notable reduction, and we have consistently achieved commendable ratings for six consecutive years."
One notable evaluation highlighted by Commissioner Kaifala was Transparency International's assessment, where Sierra Leone rose from the 131st position to the 110th position over the past six years. This positive shift reflects a proactive approach taken by President Bio through the initiatives of the ACC.
Commissioner Kaifala concluded his address by reiterating the ACC's dedication to maintaining the momentum in the fight against corruption. He expressed gratitude for the support received from various stakeholders and affirmed the commission's commitment to upholding ethical standards and promoting accountability in Sierra Leone.
As Sierra Leone continues its battle against corruption, the ACC, under the leadership of Commissioner Kaifala, stands as a beacon of progress and a testament to the positive impact that dedicated efforts can have on a nation's integrity and governance. Stay informed with Sierraloaded through various platforms for ongoing coverage of the ACC's anti-corruption initiatives and other significant developments in Sierra Leone.