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Here is the converted article in Markdown format: Botswana’s Fight Against Corruption: DCEC Conducts Public Opinion Surveys to Gauge Perceptions

The Battle Against Corruption in Botswana

The Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC) has been at the forefront of fighting corruption in Botswana, and as part of its efforts, it conducts public opinion surveys to gauge perceptions about corruption and its impact on the country.

Public Perception of Corruption

According to a recent survey conducted by the DCEC, the majority of respondents believe that corruption is a significant problem in Botswana. The survey also revealed that many citizens are skeptical about the ability of law enforcement agencies to effectively combat corruption.

Anticorruption Efforts

The DCEC’s efforts to promote an anticorruption culture in all government agencies have been highlighted as a crucial step towards reducing corruption. The agency has seconded officers to other ministries to hold corruption prevention committees, which aim to spearhead strategies and initiatives to mainstream anticorruption measures.

Challenges and Collaborations

Alignment with other authorities, including the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), is critical for the DCEC in order to prosecute corrupt individuals and secure convictions. However, the agency’s relationship with the DPP has been problematic in the past, with the DPP deciding not to prosecute high-profile corruption cases put forward by the DCEC.

The DCEC also collaborates with other oversight bodies, law enforcement agencies, and international organizations to combat corruption. According to Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index 2016, Botswana ranked 35th out of 176 countries in terms of perceived corruption, with a score of 59 out of 100.

Assignment Studies

In an effort to address corruption, the DCEC has also been conducting assignment studies, which involve a critical examination of systems and procedures involved in a defined area of activity within an organization. The purpose is to identify existing weaknesses in the system and recommend methods of improvement.

Impact and Progress

The agency’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, with many stakeholders praising its commitment to fighting corruption. However, more needs to be done to address corruption in Botswana, and the DCEC’s public opinion surveys will continue to play a crucial role in monitoring progress and shaping policy.

Source:

  • The Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC)
  • Transparency International
  • Afrobarometer survey R2 2002/2003 (Botswana)
  • Afrobarometer survey R6 2014/2015 (Botswana)

Photo: A sign at the DCEC headquarters in Gaborone, Botswana. Credit: [Source]