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Sierra Leone’s fight against corruption has suffered a significant setback, as evidenced by its declining performance in global anti-corruption rankings.
The country’s score in the Global Anti-Corruption Index fell from 35/100 in 2023 to 33/100 in 2024, while its position in Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) dropped six places, from 108/180 in 2023 to 114/180 in 2024.
This downward trend has raised alarm within the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), which has called for a critical evaluation of the nation’s collective efforts to tackle corruption.
During a recent address, Patrick Sandi, the Director of Public Education and Outreach at the ACC, emphasized the necessity for the public to take the findings of the Transparency International report seriously.
He noted that while the previous ratings were met with skepticism by some, it is crucial for stakeholders to acknowledge the current decline in the index.
Sandi stated, “We have seen this kind of report and we appreciate it, but this decline signifies lapses in the fight against corruption that involve various institutions.” He admitted that although the ACC is doing its part, other sectors must also take responsibility for the fight against corruption.
The Director highlighted issues stemming from Audit Reports and mentioned the role of parliamentarians in the overall anti-corruption effort, underscoring that it is not solely about placing blame but rather about fostering a collaborative environment among all parties involved.
Pointing to ongoing judicial cases, Sandi emphasized the ACC’s dependence on a judicial system that operates independently. “The commission has cases in the High Court of Sierra Leone which are pending judgments. We work in partnership, and while we collaborate with the judiciary, we are not in a position to dictate their actions,” he explained.
While expressing his reluctance to adopt a confrontational tone, Sandi reiterated the importance of cooperative efforts in addressing corruption, saying, “If that is the output, what would you do? We want to promote partnership and cooperation.”
Sierra Leone’s struggle against corruption faces formidable obstacles, as demonstrated by the recent drop in its Global Anti-Corruption Index ranking. Moving forward, stakeholders must unite to effectively combat corruption and rebuild confidence in the nation’s institutions.
Corruption is so indeded in all sectors, institutions, and areas of society that it’s become so acceptable.
The sad part is that we’ve become international beggar’s. Our leaders come into power the first official duties is to travel the world to asked others to build our infrastructures and institutions, they have no idea or clues as to how to manage the country natural resources, or develop and grow our own food. Furthermore health and education development have not been given a great thought.
Corruption is embedded in all areas and sectors in mama Salon. Sad but that’s the reality of daily life.