The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has issued a pressing warning on International Anti-Corruption Day, emphasizing that ongoing corruption is severely undermining public trust and the provision of essential services in the nation. Coinciding with a global observance, FICAC highlighted this year’s theme, “Corruption Prevention Is Everyone’s Duty,” which serves as a vital reminder of the adverse effects corruption has on the daily lives of citizens.
The Commission stated that corruption leads to diminished service delivery, the misuse of public resources, and the creation of unfair advantages that ultimately erode confidence in public institutions. They expressed concern that when corruption is left unchecked, it is ordinary citizens, especially those most dependent on public services, who bear the brunt of its negative impacts.
International Anti-Corruption Day, established by the United Nations post-adoption of the UN Convention against Corruption, aims to raise awareness and strengthen systems of accountability while promoting integrity throughout society. This year’s observance has been described by FICAC as being “targeted, meaningful, and focused on our core mandate,” reflecting their commitment to empowering Fijians and emphasizing that preventing corruption is a collective national responsibility.
FICAC is calling on all citizens to embrace the principles of honesty, transparency, and accountability. Their message is clear: “Together, we can prevent corruption and build a better Fiji.” By actively participating in the fight against corruption, Fijians have the potential to foster a more equitable and trustworthy society.
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