The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has issued a compelling alert regarding the pervasive threat of corruption, particularly as the world observes International Anti-Corruption Day. This year’s theme, “Corruption Prevention Is Everyone’s Duty,” serves as a powerful reminder of the serious repercussions that corruption can have on the daily lives of ordinary citizens.
In a recent statement, FICAC highlighted the adverse effects of corruption, noting that it undermines service delivery, misappropriates public resources, offers inequitable benefits, and erodes trust in public institutions. The Commission stressed that unchecked corruption disproportionately impacts the most vulnerable members of society, especially those reliant on essential public services.
International Anti-Corruption Day, established by the United Nations alongside the adoption of the UN Convention against Corruption, aims to enhance awareness, strengthen accountability frameworks, and promote integrity across all sectors of society. FICAC emphasized that this year’s activities are not mere formalities; they align closely with the Commission’s mission to empower citizens of Fiji and reinforce the idea that tackling corruption is a shared national responsibility.
FICAC has urged all Fijians to uphold the values of honesty, transparency, and accountability. The Commission invites communities to collaborate in preventing corruption, laying the groundwork for a more hopeful and promising future for Fiji. By nurturing a unified commitment to integrity, the people of Fiji can enact meaningful change, paving the way for a society that works for everyone.