Anti-corruption needs the combined efforts of the public sector, private sector, civil society and every citizen, no matter how young or small and no matter their background.
This was highlighted by President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere while officiating at the Pacific Anti-Corruption Regional Conference at the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa.
Katonivere says there is a need for regional cooperation and shared responsibility in tackling corruption, recognising that it is a complex and persistent challenge that requires collective efforts.
He says corruption does not just affect the State or the public sector alone as it is an evil that has the potential to permeate and destroy our society as a whole.
He adds that anti-corruption is without a doubt an essential element of good governance in which the State carries the main responsibility of ensuring that it has strong anti-corruption mechanisms and measures in place – working collaboratively, to put an end to corruption.
Katonivere says in our region, each country has its own unique way of identifying, combatting, and preventing corruption and each of our countries would also have its fair share of challenges when it comes to individual anti-corruption efforts.
He says some countries have implemented anti-corruption mechanisms that are slightly more stringent and advanced, in terms of years of operation, than others.
With the theme “Fostering Regional Cooperation for Addressing Corruption towards Good Governance and Sustainable Development in Pacific Island Countries”, Katonivere shared that the participation of the private sector and civil society in the fight against corruption is also necessary.
He says corruption does not discriminate, thus, we cannot afford to discriminate against who should or can be involved in anti-corruption work and who should not be involved.
Katonivere has reaffirmed Fiji's commitment to fighting corruption and its detrimental impact on societies, economies, and governance.
