ACC COMMISSIONER RALLIES CITIZENS TO UPHOLD INTEGRITY AT CIVIC ENGAGEMENT IN PORT LOKO
6th May 2025
By: Alex A . Bah, Public Relations Assistant, ACC
The Commissioner of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), Francis Ben Kaifala Esq., has called on citizens to remain committed to integrity and the fight against corruption.
The Commissioner made the call while delivering a stirring address at a civic public lecture hosted by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education at the Port Loko District Council Hall in the North-west regional city of Port Loko.
Making this address to pupils, traditional leaders, civil society activists, local government representatives, and government officials, the Commissioner emphasized that public service is a trust held in the interest of the people, not an opportunity for personal enrichment.
“When you are given a position, have it in mind that it is to benefit the people you serve. One of the most powerful things we’ve done is awaken the consciousness of our citizens to reject the old mentality of 'usai den tie cow e for eat.' Now, we say: take only what you are entitled to. That shift in mindset is the beginning of a changed Sierra Leone,” he stated.
Commissioner Kaifala said that since assuming office, the ACC has worked tirelessly to transform the country’s image and reputation, especially in international rankings, where Sierra Leone now enjoys improved ratings on corruption perception indexes.
Reflecting on his commitment to regional inclusion, he recalled informing His Excellency the President Brigadier Rtd. Dr. Julius Maada Bio, upon his appointment, that Port Loko one of the largest and most strategic districts in Sierra Leone did not have an ACC office.
“In 2019, we did everything we could to bring the ACC to Port Loko. It was unacceptable for residents to travel all the way to Makeni to report corruption. Today, we are proud that this district has its own office, led by competent and strong women, including our newly promoted Director, Madam Zainab Othman,” he said.
Commissioner Kaifala reiterated that the ACC’s mission remains to ensure that public resources are used for their intended purposes and reach the people who need them most.
“We are ready, and we will continue to fight corruption. Those who have sat on the destiny of our people must be held accountable, they cannot walk free,” he said to loud applause.
He acknowledged the challenges inherent in the fight against corruption but urged all Sierra Leoneans to commit to a life of integrity, noting that the Commission’s work can only succeed with the collective will of the people.
In conclusion, the Commissioner expressed deep appreciation to the Port Loko district authorities for their consistent support to the ACC over the years, describing their partnership as a cornerstone of progress in the region.
The civic engagement is part of a broader national initiative by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education to deepen citizens’ understanding of governance, accountability, and democratic participation.
