Hertta-Maria Amutenja
Namibia, while commemorating International Anti-Corruption Day, reiterated its commitment to the continued fight against corruption.
During the event held in Katima Mulilo this week, Director-General for the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Paulus Noa, underscored the global initiative launched by the United Nations Convention against Corruption in 2003, emphasising the shared responsibility of individuals in putting an end to corruption.
Noa stressed the significance of Namibia’s adherence to the Convention since 2006, with the ACC leading the annual commemoration of the International Anti-Corruption Day.
The core mandate of the ACC, he asserted, includes the investigation of corruption allegations and taking necessary actions per the law.
The ACC, he emphasised, is unwavering in its commitment to enforcing the Anti-Corruption Act of 2003, granting it the authority to act against any individual or official, accordance with the Anti-Corruption Act of 2003, which granted the ACC the authority to act against any individual or official, regardless of societal status, engaged in corrupt practices.
“Namibia, as a member of the global family, cannot afford to compromise the implementation of legal instruments against corruption. The United Nations Convention Against Corruption embodies a comprehensive approach to corruption, recognizing the importance of both corruption prevention and punitive measures.” Declared Noa.
Furthermore, the anti-graft body director urged citizens to renew their commitment to the fight against corruption, emphasising that prevention is the key investment for economic growth and sustainable development.
He concluded by calling on individuals to reject, resist, refrain and report corruption.
Speaking at the same occasion, Zambezi region governor Lawrence Sampofu, underlined the detrimental impact of corruption on development.
Stating that public resources meant for essential investments are diverted into the pockets of corrupt individuals.
“We all know that rampant corruption hinders development. Public resources are diverted to the pockets of corrupted individuals from needed investments in transport, energy, health, and education.
Petty corruption, such as service providers asking for bribes or simply not reporting to work, should not be tolerated,” he said
Sampofu further condemned petty corruption and urged standard leadership in offices, ministries, and agencies, urging a collective effort to prevent corruption and transform the public service and the nation.
Director-General of Operations at the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime Priscilla Israel, shared progress on implementing decisions and Memoranda of Understanding.
Israel acknowledged the challenges posed by the evasive nature of corruption and expressed readiness to assist Namibia and other states in recovering the proceeds of corruption.
“We all know the evils of corruption and how it easily changes jurisdiction. We are more than ready to assist Namibia and other states in restoring possession of proceeds of corruption,” said Israel.
She emphasised the importance of alternative cooperation to shorten the timeframes for Mutual Legal Assistance requests, citing the collaboration between the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime and ACC as a tangible example of pragmatic unity in the fight against corruption.
