KABULL (SW): A first of its kind comprehensive research on corruption in Afghanistan has highlighted the causes that have labelled the country as one of the most corrupt in the world.
The research conducted by the Transparency International (TI) and Integrity Watch Afghanistan (IWA) has established a complete picture of the country’s institutional landscape with regard to integrity, accountability and transparency.
One of the most critical problems facing Afghanistan is the fact that those in positions of both formal and informal power assert strong influence over law enforcement and judicial authorities, allowing them to act with impunity, it noted.
According to the report, non-meritocratic appointments have undermined the accountability of the police in particular, and weakened public trust in the police.
Afghanistan’s anti-corruption agency, the High Office for Oversight and Anti-Corruption (HOOAC) has also proven to be ineffective in the fight against corruption, and the new government removed its investigative and prosecutorial powers in 2015, the report added.
The research has highlighted that the judiciary is perceived by citizens to be the most corrupt institution in the country. “Political interference has undermined the ability of the public sector to deliver basic services to citizens”.
The TI and IW have stressed on the role of each institution involved in the fight against corruption, including the HOOAC, the Independent Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Committee (MEC), and the Attorney General’s Office (AGO).
It also recommended establishment of a strong independent Anti-Corruption Agency, an independent Judicial Services Commission to appoint and train judges.
ENDS
