Heads of anti-corruption agencies in the Commonwealth Africa have urged African governments to improve legislative frameworks that impose the burden of proof on individuals found with unexplained wealth.
After a five-day meeting in Accra, they further called for mandatory disclosure of assets and liabilities, as well as lifestyle audits.
Having deliberated for 5 days, the heads of anti-corruption agencies in commonwealth Africa came out with a communique which if followed by African governments is expected to help combat corruption in the region.
Dr. Roger Koranteng, head of Public Sector Governance at the Commonwealth Secretariat, UK who read out the communique, among others encouraged Anti-Corruption Agencies to intensify corruption prevention in view of the evolving corruption landscape.
“Commonwealth African governments should enact and enhance legislative framework to ensure establishment and accessibility of beneficial ownership registers. African governments should ensure the mandatory disclosure of assets and liabilities of all public service holders and take necessary steps to audit their lifestyles and associates. Commonwealth African governments should commit resources to anti-corruption agencies. Anti-corruption agencies should preserve their independence.’’
Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office, COP Maame Yaa Tiwa Addo Danquah who has been elected as the new chairperson for the Association, expressed satisfaction with the meeting and its outcomes, saying it would make EOCO more forward looking and impactful.
“As leaders in the fight against corruption, we have a solemn duty to confront the menace head-on with unwavering resolve and stiffer commitments. Together we can redouble our efforts to strengthen anti-corruption framework, enhance cooperation and collaboration among agencies. Our shared commitment to combating corruption is a beacon of hope for a better future,’’ she said.
Deputy Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Godfred Tua Yeboah charged the heads to use digitalisation to fight corruption as indicated by the Vice President at the Conference on Thursday.
“What is left is the commitment we must all show to ensure that our generation and future generation will benefit from the resources that the good Lord has bestowed on us. We can benefit from this resource only when we are able to protect the public purse and you are agents of this kind of partner you want to have.’’
South Africa will be hosting the next conference in 2025 in partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat.
Source:
3news.com
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