The Head of State has vowed to continue strongly talking corruption and other malpractices that are hindering Cameroon’s growth nationally
The Head of State, Paul Biya has reaffirmed his commitment to fight corruption and the misappropriation of public funds in a bid to boost governance and promote national development. The president made the declaration during his end-of-year address on December 31. For years, corruption has been a common problem in Cameroon, affecting various sectors of the economy and governance.
The National Anti-Corruption Commission in a report last year stated that Cameroon lost some 114 billion FCFA to corruption in 2023.Experts and pundits say it undermines the rule of law, public trust in institutions and hampers economic growth. In the December 31 address said he remains firm on fighting the damaging practice. “Let me assure you of one thing: appropriate sanctions will be meted out on those found guilty of such offenses,” Biya said.
The president’s speech, per experts, serves as a clear message that the government is serious about tackling this issue and restoring integrity to the nation’s institutions including legal protection for private investment and land tenure security, where abuses have also been noted. The president’s promise to punish those caught in the act of corruption, further state, sends a strong signal that there will be no tolerance for such behavior.
This approach, they insist, aligns with the principles of the rule of law, which dictate that everyone, including government officials, is subject to the law. By implementing strict sanctions for corrupt activities, the government can create a preventive effect, discouraging individuals from engaging in unethical practices. They the Head of State’s stance on the corruption challenges further reflects a broader commitment of good governance and transparency. It is essential for the government to implement this call to action and demonstrate its dedication to combating corruption.
While the fight against corruption is certainly a significant focus, it was not the only main focus of the president’s speech, Biya also touched on other important issues of the country, such as economic development, infrastructure improvement, and social welfare programs sympathizing with the victims of the Dschang cliff and flood in the Far North Region.