Corruption in check: Minister

Interior Minister Lt-General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa stated corruption is under control in Bahrain, thanks to an effective anti-corruption strategy and a support structure of strong religious and ethical values.  

He said Bahrain’s Anti-corruption Day celebrations come as a response to the United Nations’ decision in 2005 to make December 9 a day to raise awareness about the risks of corruption.

Shaikh Rashid said corruption is an international phenomenon that includes economic, social, political, organisational and administrative levels, which negatively affects national progress, investment, productivity and development. 

He reiterated the need for law enforcement monitoring of authorities and the implementation of a precise legislative system to fight corruption.   

The minister said  partnerships between law enforcement agencies on a local and international level is also of the utmost importance.

Bahrain is marking the day by highlighting efforts to fight corruption, including participating in active international anti-corruption programmes.

The Kingdom puts great importance on corruption indicators and transparency and strives to attain a high score in international and Arab assessments.  This includes the promotion of cooperation to achieve the objectives of the National Anti-corruption Strategy.

These programmes are the result of the reform project by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, with the backing of Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and the coordination committee chaired by the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

Another anti-corruption highlight is the progress made by the committee to combat the five violations mentioned in the Financial and Administration Audit Court report.  This committee has made tangible progress for the second year in a row, which shows the dedication to promote accountability in handling public money.

The Interior Minister applauded the efforts of the General Directorate of Anti-corruption and Economic and Electronic Security in investigating 64 corruption cases this year, including those related to violations mentioned in the audit court report.  

The Minister stated that the anti-corruption hotline (Nazaha 992) ensures confidentiality for callers and that it received 657 complaints of suspected corruption this year.