ACC Boss Francis Ben Kaifala Reaffirms Commitment to Eradicate Corruption

The Anti-Corruption Commission [ACC], Commissioner, Francis Ben Kaifala, has reaffirmed his commitment to eradicating corruption and dismantling the culture of impunity in the country.

Kaifala made this statement while speaking on the 2023 Auditor General’s Report during a recent press briefing organized by the ACC in Freetown.

“While discretion is sometimes warranted, this practice risks fostering a culture of impunity. Let me be clear: Impunity has no place in Sierra Leone. There must be accountability and responsibility at every level.”

According to him, the ACC will continue its consultation with Parliament as they remain committed to addressing the issues raised in the Auditor General’s Report.

“Our focus will always be on protecting the people of Sierra Leone from corruption and ensuring a system of accountability that works for all. This is not just a plan it is our responsibility. Together through collaboration and transparency, we can build a Sierra Leone where integrity prevails,” he averred.

Kaifala continued that, the public deserves to see the outcomes of the 2022 and 2023 Audit Reports, not just for clarity but to instill trust in the mechanism designed to protect their interest.

he said corruption is not merely an act, but a betrayal of the nation and its future, adding that impunity has no place in Sierra Leone and also urged citizens to join the fight against corrupt practices.

He highlighted some of the commission’s successes which include the adoption of zero-tolerance approach, successfully prosecuted high-profile cases, and recovered billions of leones in stolen public funds.

“This unprecedented crackdown has sent a strong message to both public officials and private individuals that no one is above the law.”

He also highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in combating corruption, and called on civil society, the media, and ordinary citizens to act as watchdogs, reporting unethical practices and holding leaders accountable.

He said that the Commission is focusing on preventive measures, including education campaigns and strengthening institutional frameworks, to ensure long-term success.

“We will not rest until corruption is defeated, because a nation free from corruption is a nation on the path to prosperity,” he concluded.