By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
Francis Ben Kaifala, Commissioner of Sierra Leone’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), has called for the development of more accurate and reliable tools to measure corruption.
Speaking at the 2nd Global Conference on “Harnessing Data to Improve Corruption Measurement” held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, Kaifala highlighted the limitations of existing indexes, including Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI).
He noted that the CPI and similar indexes often rely on subjective perceptions rather than actual data, and can be influenced by biases. Kaifala also expressed concern that such indexes may be misused to unfairly criticize anti-corruption efforts in developing countries, particularly in Africa.
Welcoming initiatives to re-imagine and redefine corruption measurement methodologies, he emphasized that more accurate tools would help anti-corruption agencies (ACAs) and governments identify areas for improvement and track progress.
Kaifala advocated for a new approach that incorporates both effort and progress, rather than relying solely on perceptions. He urged collaboration with civil society and credible measurement organizations to develop a more reliable methodology.
“Indexes are important as they provide ACAs and civil society actors with a credible reflection of the situation in their countries,” Kaifala said. “We welcome this process and look forward to its outcomes, which will help us better address corruption and promote transparency and accountability.”
The conference focused on exploring new ways to measure corruption and enhance transparency, highlighting the need for more nuanced and accurate tools to support global anti-corruption efforts.