LETTER OF THE DAY - Unity among stakeholders needed to fight corruption

THE EDITOR, Sir:

It is with great relief and pleasure to hear, in her inaugural speech, the prime minister highlighting the importance of partnership, accountability, transparency and a zero-tolerance approach to corruption. I honestly believe the PM is serious about this course and will do everything within her power to achieve the same.

I would like to suggest that the matter of corruption doesn't only resonate at the top of the salary scale in the public sector, but across non-governmental organisations, private-sector organisations and community-based organisations.

The proposed beneficiaries are normally the big losers in these acts of corruption, as they don't really get value for the money that's earmarked to be spent in their communities.

It is alleged that some resources that are earmarked for social intervention and developmental projects are often hijacked and a substantial percentage is deducted, never spent on the project, but goes in some other purse.

It is also alleged that some of these irregularities always elude the auditors and board members, as they are disguised. Without the necessary power invested in the contractor general, who can also broaden the activities of the office to include a community-based project monitoring and evaluation team, this talk of fighting corruption would be nothing but talk.

Such an organisation would need to operate independently of the implementing agencies to monitor and evaluate the activities of all projects being implemented in the communities.

Funding possible

I know the question of salary for this team will arise, as is the case with the Cabinet of 20, but it can be a voluntary initiative with some allowances.

Moreover, it is a proactive management strategy that will reduce or eliminate corruption and guarantee effective implementation of projects. Hence, a reduction in wasted funds will provide resources to pay the team a full-time salary.

The community-based project monitoring and evaluation team will need the appropriate environment in which to operate in an impartial and decisive way, free from intimidation and with the necessary access to information related to projects.

Hence, the partnership among all stakeholders is key, where all agencies will participate in monthly reporting activities at the Community Development Committee meetings.

When we achieve this, our pride of 50 years of Independence will be more appreciated.

ROHAN PERRY

rohanperry@yahoo.com

Jones Town, Kingston