KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ candidly admitted today that the government’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption, though earnest, have proven inadequate.
Speaking at a program organized by the Commission for Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) on the occasion of the International Anti-Corruption Day, PM Dahal emphasized the necessity of enhanced cooperation among the government, private sector, and civil society.
While acknowledging the mobilization of all state mechanisms to identify and eliminate corruption at its roots, PM Dahal stressed that the results of the initiatives fell short of expectations. He expressed his commitment to fostering cooperation among stakeholders for a collective and effective anti-corruption agenda.
“As the efforts made so far are not adequate to curb corruption, additional effective measures are imperative,” underscored PM Dahal. He highlighted that the government, under his leadership, is dedicated to social justice, good governance, and prosperity, aiming to send a positive message to the public.
PM Dahal acknowledged the evolving forms of corruption in the era of technological advancement, calling for vigilant attention from all sides. He emphasized the government’s commitment to enforcing legal provisions and informed that the Office of the Prime Minister is functioning as a contact agency for the implementation of the UN General Convention against Corruption.
The Prime Minister shared that the government has made legal and institutional arrangements to criminalize all forms of corruption, ensure extradition for corruption charges, facilitate mutual legal assistance, and enable the return of property acquired through corrupt practices. He also stressed the need for creating public awareness against corruption, starting from the school level.
Chief Secretary Dr. Baikuntha Aryal echoed the importance of cooperation and collaboration among the government, private sector, and civil society to effectively combat corruption. Acting Chief Commissioner of the CIAA, Kishor Kumar Silwal, reiterated the need for clean, transparent behavior to overcome corruption’s negative impacts. He emphasized the CIAA’s active role in establishing a corruption-free society.
The International Anti-Corruption Day, observed annually on December 9, serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to fight corruption and promote transparency and accountability in governance.
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