Bagmati CM stresses collective effort to combat corruption

By Anil Parajuli,Hetauda, Dec. 10: Bagmati Province Chief Minister Bahadur Singh Lama (Tamang) has emphasised the need for collective efforts to combat corruption. Speaking at an event marking International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 in Hetauda on Monday, Lama stated that tackling corruption requires unity across all sectors, including the executive, judiciary and ministries.

"Curbing corruption is not just about acknowledging its existence; the focus should be on how to control it," said CM Lama. 

He stressed that corruption could not be mitigated through a single approach and called for the development of systematic methods to address the issue effectively. Without a comprehensive approach, corruption will persist, he said. 

Lama underscored the need for modern, technology-friendly strategies to combat corruption. He suggested that identifying and monitoring the assets of political parties, public representatives, employees, and the general public could play a crucial role in corruption prevention. "Legislation alone is insufficient; effective methods of control must accompany legal frameworks," he added.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of regulating the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA), ensuring it operates without bias or a sense of revenge. Lama cited examples of everyday corruption, including employees using mobile phones during working hours, failing to wear uniforms, evading taxes, and undervaluing land transactions. He urged everyone to pledge not to engage in or tolerate corruption, advocating for technology-driven solutions to address the issue comprehensively.

Bagmati Province's Minister for Internal Affairs and Law, Suraj Chandra Lamichhane, echoed Lama's concerns, expressing alarm over the increasing corrupt practices. "People are increasingly focused on amassing wealth, disregarding laws and ethical responsibilities," said Lamichhane. He stressed that honesty and accountability were crucial to reducing corruption, which he described as a major impediment to development and prosperity.

Makawanpur’s Chief District Officer Tirtharaj Chilwal pointed out that the nature of corruption was evolving, with illegal transactions manifesting in various forms across society. He criticised government reports, including those from the Accountant General, for creating confusion and argued that integrity and honesty must underpin state policy-making processes to effectively combat corruption.

During the programme, Uma Kanta Acharya, Office Chief of the CIAA in Hetauda, presented a working paper outlining corruption trends within his jurisdiction. 

Keshav Raj Subedi, Provincial Secretary of the Office of the Chief Minister and Council of Ministers, shared strategies for preventing corruption and promoting good governance across Bagmati Province.

The event, chaired by Bagmati Province Chief Secretary Dr. Hari Prasad Lamsal, was attended by provincial ministers, secretaries, and employees. The discussions underscored the urgent need for a united front and innovative strategies to address corruption at all levels of government.