UNDP Pacific Office Resident Representative Munkhtuya Altangerel.

BY CHRIS ALEX

UNDP Pacific Office Resident Representative Munkhtuya Altangerel has urged Solomon Islands parliamentarians to serve as servant leaders in combating corruption in the country.

“Each member of the National Parliament now holds the responsibility to lead the fight against corruption.

“Let us all be servant leaders in the fight against corruption, serving the beautiful Solomon Islands,” Altangerel stated in her closing remarks at the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) 2024–2027 document’s official launch yesterday at the Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara.

The NACS was introduced during the crucial week of parliamentary induction at the Heritage Park Hotel, which she praised as fortunate.

“The social contract between citizens and the government means that people have the right to demand action and information about government and private sector activities.

“Government institutions and public servants, including international ones like myself, are duty-bearers who must provide necessary support and data,” the UNDP Pacific Office Resident Representative said.

Altangerel also commended the reform made by the Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) for prioritizing anti-corruption measures within its first 100 days, alongside its climate action agenda.

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele (L) and UNDP Pacific Office Resident Representative Munkhtuya Altangerel (R) at the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) 2024–2027 document’s official launch yesterday at the Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara.

 “Thank you, Honourable Prime Minister and all government members, for prioritizing this fundamental issue. Without addressing corruption, sustaining progress and growth is impossible,” she said.

Altangerel presented alarming figures illustrating the cost of corruption, which hampers humanity’s progress towards a sustainable future.

“Combating corruption requires more than legislative acts or strengthening public institutions; it necessitates collective societal efforts. An informed public can act as a powerful watchdog, reporting and preventing corrupt practices.

“The strategy outlines specific roles and responsibilities for the private sector, civil society, government, and independent bodies,” she said.

Altangerel stressed the importance of involving law enforcement and the judiciary in these efforts.

She also expressed gratitude to the government of Japan for supporting anti-corruption and transparency initiatives.

The comprehensive Anti-Corruption Strategy marks a significant step forward in the Solomon Islands’ journey towards greater integrity and transparency, promising a collaborative approach involving all sectors of society.

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