Sudan: Anti-Bribery Laws and Regulations Face Challenges Amidst Corruption Epidemic
The signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) between Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army (SPLA/M) and National Islamic Front (NIF) of Khartoum government in 2005, and subsequent referendum that led to the birth of South Sudan as Africa’s newest country in 2011, was a sign of hope for the people of South Sudan to embark on peace, unity, justice, equality, and prosperity. However, corruption has remained a major obstacle to achieving these goals.
The Problem of Corruption
Corruption is a significant problem in South Sudan, with bribery being one of its most prevalent forms. The government’s lack of transparency, political instability, poverty, and weak property rights have created an environment conducive to corruption. Moreover, the contagion from corrupt neighboring countries and low levels of education, economic freedom, and press freedom have also contributed to the problem.
Efforts to Combat Corruption
In 2009, the South Sudan Anti-Corruption Commission (SSACC) was established to combat corruption. However, despite its efforts, corruption remains widespread. In 2016, Transparency International ranked South Sudan as one of the most corrupt countries in the world.
Challenges and Opportunities
The lack of effective anti-corruption laws and regulations has hindered efforts to combat bribery and other forms of corruption. The government has failed to prosecute high-ranking officials accused of corruption, leading to a culture of impunity.
In recent years, there have been some attempts to strengthen anti-corruption laws and regulations. In 2017, the African Union launched a new strategy to combat corruption in South Sudan. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of corruption and to ensure that those responsible for corrupt activities are held accountable.
Key Recommendations
To combat bribery and other forms of corruption, it is essential to establish an effective anti-corruption framework that includes laws, regulations, and institutions that can detect and prosecute corrupt activities. The government must also take concrete steps to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance.
- Strengthen anti-corruption laws and regulations
- Promote transparency and accountability in government operations
- Ensure that those responsible for corrupt activities are held accountable
Conclusion
In conclusion, corruption remains a significant challenge in South Sudan, and more needs to be done to address this problem. Strengthening anti-corruption laws and regulations, promoting transparency and accountability, and ensuring that those responsible for corrupt activities are held accountable are essential steps towards creating a more just and prosperous society.