The Commissioner of Sierra Leone’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), Francis Ben Kaifala, has issued a strong appeal to public officials to comply with the ongoing asset declaration exercise, describing it as both a legal obligation and a moral commitment to integrity.

In his weekly inspirational message published on April 15, 2026, Kaifala called on all public officers in Grade 7 and above, as well as individuals holding fiduciary and financial responsibilities, to declare their income, assets, and liabilities in line with Section 119 of the Anti-Corruption Act of 2008 (as amended in 2019).

The 2026 bi-annual asset declaration exercise officially began and is scheduled to end on July 31, 2026.

Kaifala emphasized that meeting the deadline is not only about fulfilling a statutory requirement but also about making “a conscious and honorable decision to stand on the just, right, and patriotic side of integrity.”

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The ACC Commissioner has consistently promoted transparency and accountability as central pillars in the fight against corruption. His latest message reinforces the importance of personal responsibility among public officials in upholding these values.

He also highlighted improvements in the declaration process, noting the introduction of a fully digitized platform developed by the government’s Directorate of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI). The system allows users to complete their declarations online using mobile phones, tablets, or computers.

According to the ACC, the digital platform simplifies the process, enabling users to input biodata, financial records, assets, and liabilities in a streamlined and confidential manner. With stable internet access and the required documentation, the process can be completed in approximately 30 minutes.

Kaifala described the system as part of a broader strategy to modernize governance and reduce opportunities for corruption. In a previous statement in 2024, he stressed the importance of technology in preventing corruption, stating: “To entrench and sustain the fight against corruption, especially prevention, which is cheaper, easier, and more sustainable, we must deliberately invest in making public sector service delivery cashless and paperless.”

The ACC maintains that the shift from manual to digital systems reduces administrative inefficiencies, lowers operational costs, and enhances transparency in public service delivery.

Public officers have been advised to access the declaration portal via the ACC website and complete the process using valid identification such as a passport or national ID card.

The Commission has also warned that failure to comply within the stipulated period will attract administrative sanctions, including salary suspension, withholding of benefits, and possible termination of service. In 2025, several senior officials reportedly faced such penalties before eventually complying.

Kaifala reiterated that compliance remains the simpler and more responsible option, urging all affected individuals to act promptly and demonstrate their commitment to national integrity.