World Bank Country Director to Liberia, Khwima Nthara, says the fight against corruption is a collective effort that all Liberians must help combat.
He describes Corruption as a major challenge to development and as such fighting corruption requires consecutive efforts of everyone involved.
Nthara said, the fight against Corruption needs to be multi-faceted because corruption itself is complex, and with technological advancements, it has become even more sophisticated, He emphasized that fighting corruption in the country requires political will at highest level.
He said If the leadership cannot show commitment and lead by example, it becomes difficult for the rest of the citizens and the rank and file in institutions to be committed to fighting corruption.
Commemorating the observance of the International Anti- Corruption Day, (IACD), 2022, under the global theme: Uniting the World Against Corruption and it’s National Theme: ” Promoting Integrity and Accountability for Increased Citizens’ Participation in the fight against Corruption”. The World Bank Country Director to Liberia, Mr. Nthara, pinpointed on reasons, while corruption, should and must be a collective fight of everyone, he said Corruption shouldn’t be taken likely, because it has a disproportionate impact on the poor and the most vulnerable. It increases costs and reducing access to services, including health, education and justice.
Mr. Nthara said if Corruption must be eradicated in Liberia, the Citizenry has a critical role to play, which is in line with the theme of this year’s commemoration of the fight against Corruption. “
Given what we know about the cost of corruption, citizens, must take it upon themselves to fight corruption in all it’s forms, “They must not only say no to corruption but must demand accountability and action from their leaders, he said.
Nthara said fighting corruption has to do with a mindset change, noting mostly of the African societies, corruption has been seen as normal phenomenal, culture, and people do not see any needs to address it.
He commended the Government of Liberia (GOL), in a fight against Corruption, by the evidences of the amendment of the Anti-corruption law that gives the Liberia Anti- Corruption Commission prosecutorial powers, something he said has sends a clear signal that the Government is serious about corruption, this he said must be complement by ensuring that those requires arms, the LACC, and the Judiciary, are resourcefully empowered to crack down on corruption” This means the LACC, the Judiciary are well paid, and they’re qualify to enable carries out their operations, Nthara added.
Nthara, at the same time, reaffirmed the World Bank, commitment to Liberia, in fighting Corruption.
For his part, LACC Boss, Cllr. Edwin Kla Martin, attested the fight against Corruption remains challenging, but reaffirmed the Government of Liberia through the Liberia Anti-corruption Commission (LACC), commitment to tackling corruption in every areas.
As Liberia joins other countries around the world in celebrating this days, it is extremely important for us as Liberian to strengthen all sectors of our society in order for us to collectively declare a massive war against Corruption, he said.
“Seventeen (17) months ago when I assumed the office as Executive Chairman of the LACC, I made pledge to the Liberian people, In my capacity, I solemn pledge that we can all work to reduce incident of corruption and to establish the atmosphere where all Liberians can equally benefit from the resources of this country.
Cllr. Kla Martin, describes Corruption as dangerous recipe that impedes and undermine the development and growth of any Nation, thereby urging Liberians to rise up to the task in fighting corruption.
“As we celebrate this day, let me bring to your attention that exactly one year in my journey as Executive Chairman of the LACC, the Commission has encountered and still encountering series of challenges. These are all attempts to distract our goals and weaken the war we have declared Against Corruption.
The LACC under my leadership is deeply concern about Liberia and it’s future – a future where corruption will no longer be the way of Life. ” I Take the pledge to commit against corruption, Cllr. Martin said.
Also Speaking, Assistant Minister for litigation at the Ministry of Justice Cllr. Wesseh A. Wesseh, as proxy for Justice Minister Frank Musa Dean, Jr. Corruption remains an existential threat to the stability and prosperity of Liberia and as such a combat effort to tackle it, must be a must,’’ He urged the Liberia Anti Corruption Commission (LACC),to step up their efforts at ensuring a corruption- free public service Liberia.
