Suriname’s Anti-Corruption Commission: A New Era in Fighting Corruption
In a significant move to combat corruption in Suriname, the government has established an Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), as mandated by Article 2(2) and (3) of the country’s laws. The commission consists of at least five and not more than seven members, appointed, suspended, or fired by the President after consultation with the National Assembly.
Key Members
The ACC has three members nominated by the Minister to the President upon recommendation from:
- The District Attorney’s Office
- The Central Government Accounting Service
- The Internal Revenue Service
Other members must have expertise in areas such as:
• Information and Communication Technology (ICT) • Organizational science • Financial management control • Auditing in the public sector • Insight into the functioning of government organizations and decision-making processes
Budget and Rules
The ACC and its bureau are covered by the Ministry of Justice and Police’s budget. The rules governing the commission’s bylaws, legal position, and labor conditions are regulated through a state decree.
Expected Outcomes
The ACC aims to reduce corruption in Suriname by:
• Investigating cases • Gathering evidence • Taking appropriate measures
The goal is to build a systematic approach to addressing corruption across various levels of government and society, ensuring policy measures are implemented to prevent future occurrences. Success will be measured by:
• Successful prosecutions and convictions • Improved public perception of corruption • Reduced resistance to anti-corruption measures • Increased awareness about the negative consequences of corruption
Challenges
The ACC has faced several challenges in its inaugural year, including:
- Location and logistics: The commission had to independently search for a suitable location and request quotations. Approval for the chosen location took months due to unspecified details.
- Staffing: Due to delayed establishment of the “Bureau Anticorruptie Commissie” execution decree, the ACC cannot advertise job vacancies.
- Tasks not assigned: The commission was given a year to carry out preparatory work, but some tasks were brought forward due to IMF requirements.
Documentation and Contact
For further information on the Suriname Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), please visit:
Contact:
The Anti Corruption Commissie Suriname (ACC) Address: Henck Arronstraat no 18, Paramaribo Phone: (597) -478500 Email: hello@acc.sr