|
Momodou
Denmark
11823 Posts |
 Posted - 22 Aug 2006 : 23:03:18
|
PARLIAMENTARIANS HARP ON CORRUPTION
By Bubacarr K. Sowe
National Assembly Members have conceded that corruption is a phenomenon that undermines development.
Debating on the African Union Convention on preventing and combating corruption on Monday deputies called for the promulgation that will enhance the battle against corruption in the country.
Halifa Sallah, member or Serrekunda Central said combating corruption should be a priority nationally.
“Millions are being siphoned away from the public by corrupt people from Africa to the developed world,” Sallah said.
He also said people taking up government positions should declare how much they have in banks so that the public would know how much they have before taking up public office.
Saidou Dem, of Jarra East said corruption is a persistent feature in The Gambia and needs to be addressed urgently. “Most often you see officials using government vehicles, its fuel or drivers for their individual benefit.”
Dem said before corruption can be completely eliminated, its causes needs to be addressed first. He said little accountability; low payment and a highly centralized system of government are some of the factors breeding corruption.
The member for Jarra West Kemeseng Jammeh said if corruption is persistent, it can lead to a rebellion like what happened in several African countries. He also called on Western countries to close the bank accounts of corrupt African leaders and work with the AU on how to stem out the menace. “Our poverty is not due to scarcity of resources.”
The member for Basse, Momodou Sellou Bah said African parliamentarians have always been given “Well-written” Protocols to ratify, but implementation is still a nightmare.
Source: Foroyaa Newspaper Burning Issue
Issue No. 67/2006, 18-20 August, 2006
|
|
Topic Locked
