By: Amie Massaquoi, Information Officer ACC.
In a significant step toward fostering transparency and strengthening public accountability, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Consortium on Public Accountability (NCPA).
The MoU, signed on December 11, 2024, signifies a collaborative commitment to combat corruption and promote accountability and good governance across public sector. The partnership aims to enhance mechanisms for monitoring and reporting corruption, ensuring adherence to ethical practices in public and private institutions.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Deputy Commissioner, ACC, Augustine Foday Ngobie, emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing corruption. “The fight against corruption is the responsibility of all Sierra Leoneans. This partnership with the NCPA will bolster our efforts to create a culture of accountability and transparency. Together, we will work to empower citizens and institutions to uphold integrity in all spheres,” he stated.
Augustine Foday Ngobie further stated that even though the ACC is spearheading the fight against corruption, the support of the citizens will enhance the Commission’s strength. He added that the ACC will work with well-meaning citizens who are ready to whistle blow and unearth corrupt practices anywhere and anytime.
Ahmed M. Yillah, Executive Secretary, National Consortium on Public Accountability, commended the ACC for their immense contributions in the fight against corruption. He said the Consortium is joining the Commission in the fight to ensure accountability for the success and benefit to the country. He echoed this sentiment, highlighting the pivotal role of public engagement in achieving these goals. “By pooling our resources and expertise, we can amplify the impact of anti-corruption initiatives and pave the way for sustainable development,” Yillah concluded.
According to the citation of the partnership agreement which was done by Amie Massaquoi, Information Officer ACC, both parties have agreed to undertake activities that are mutually determined to contribute to the achievement of their common goal of promoting transparency, accountability and responsibility in public service. The MoU further outlines key areas of collaboration, including capacity-building workshops, public awareness campaigns, strengthening the pillars of integrity, and whistleblowing mechanisms. Both parties have committed to leveraging on their respective strengths to foster a corrupt-free society.
Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, who doubles as the Director, Public Education and Outreach ACC, Patrick Sandi, expressed satisfaction in the move made by the Consortium to partner with the ACC. He further stated that it was a step in the proper direction, believing that Sierra Leoneans must view the fight as a collective one and in their best interest. Mr. Sandi encouraged the Consortium members to be courageous and vigilant in their endeavors to support the Commission in controling the malaise which has hindered the development aspirations of our beloved country.
The National Consortium on Public Accountability is a Civil Society that instills the spirit of civic duty or responsibility in citizens through its advocacy campaign. It is an independent and decentralized civil society body, constituting all spheres of life that are dedicated to providing set of citizens the requisite awareness and knowledge on the dangers of corruption and the benefits of preventing it.
The appending of their signatures to the MoU by the Deputy Commissioner, Augustine Foday Ngobie, for the ACC and the Executive Secretary NCPA Ahmed M. Yillah, climaxed the ceremony.
