Bahrain marks International Anti-corruption Day

Manama, Dec. 8 (BNA): The Minister of Interior Minister Lt-General Shaikh Rashid bin Adbullah Al Khalifa delivered the following speech to mark International Anti-Corruption Day on December 9: With the increasing international focus on countering corruption, due to its negative effects on the stability of society, the General Assembly of the United Nations has declared December 9 as an international day to fight corruption. The Kingdom of Bahrain marks the occasion with the International community to promote integrity and to fight corruption with a strong policy and translation of the constitution principles and the reform project of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Ladies and Gentlemen, fighting corruption and the protection of public money are joint efforts by all segments in society to prevent the destructive results of corruption on all levels, especially economically. Corruption can hinder growth and harm the social and cultural fabric that can lead to an increase in crime. For this reason, a national anti-corruption strategy was implemented through a comprehensive social partnership to create multi-dimensional criteria, including the drafting of national legislations that meet international standards and reinforce world cooperation. The strategy also activates the media in the fight against corruption and the awareness and improvement of national anti-corruption efforts. I confirm that fighting corruption is a top priority in Bahrain, out of the commitment to the UN Convention against Corruption of 2003 that was endorsed by Bahrain in accordance to the law 7 of 2010. This international agreement is a roadmap for the international community to reinforce integrity and fight corruption. It also calls for a strengthening of national anti-corruption capabilities. Bahrain is getting ready to undergo the second review that will tackle the second and fifth chapters of "preventive measures" and "asset recovery". Bahrain continues to be dedicated to reinforcing integrity and transparency and fighting corruption. This was reflected by the anti-corruption indications released annually by the International Transparency Organisation. The Kingdom scored the 50th position internationally in 2015, while it was in the 55th position in 2014. We are hoping for an even better position in 2016. Bahrain has continued to take steps to reinforce international cooperation by joining the agreement of the formation of the International Anti-corruption Academy in accordance to law 12 of 2016. This was a turning point in the promotion of international cooperation and exchange of information and expertise. Out of the responsibilities of the General Directorate of Anti-corruption and Economic and Electronic Security that was established in accordance to law 109 of 2011, I would like to applauded the active role of the department in promoting preventative measures, international cooperation and good social and cultural values in society. In terms of crime fighting efforts, the department dealt with 30 cases this year, including violations mentioned in the Financial and Administrative Audit Court report that were referred by the coordination committee. Meanwhile, the Ministry's anti-corruption hotline (Nazaha “integrity” 922”) has been a secure and direct channel for members of the public to report cases. The department received 1539 claims of various illegal practices. Finally I would like to express my gratitude for the previous achievements that motivate us in furthering our efforts to protect public money and the creation of a corruption-free society. May God protect Bahrain and bless it with security and safety under the leadership of HM the King and the efforts of the wise government to achieve growth and the protection of public money. (Police media centre)