By: ACC Communication Unit
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has on 7th December, 2024 commenced its commemoration of International Anti-Corruption Day with an interfaith worship service, underscoring the critical role of spirituality in the fight against corruption, at the Integrity House, Tower Hill Freetown.
Making his keynote remark, Francis Ben Kaifala Esq, ACC Commissioner General emphasized the significance of the gathering, noting that despite Sierra Leone’s rich religious diversity and tolerance, the nation remains burdened by vices that both Islam and Christianity condemn. Highlighting this paradox, he remarked:
“As blessed as we are as a religious and religiously tolerant country, we remain one of the poorest on earth. This sharp contrast is due to failed leadership and a flawed mindset among the people, who often undermine the success of leaders.”
Commissioner Kaifala pointed to societal challenges, such as the theft of public resources and self-serving attitudes, as factors exacerbated by inadequate leadership. He stressed:
“Leaders are expected to guide, model the right actions, and set standards, but they have often failed in this duty.”
He further explained the purpose of the annual interfaith worship:
“While we fight corruption in the physical realm, we also invoke the spiritual realm to release this country from its bondage so we can successfully change its story. Corruption is rejected by God and should be rejected by man.”
The Commissioner called on religious leaders to remind their congregants of their moral duty to support the fight against corruption.
Ibrahim Tommy, Executive Director of the Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law (CARL), echoed the importance of seeking divine intervention, commending the President, the ACC Commissioner, and staff for their dedication to this cause. He lauded the ACC’s progress, evidenced by positive evaluations from various independent assessments.