Anti-graft agencies should work more to win public trust — Abu Olbeh

AMMAN — Jordanians still do not feel the seriousness of the fight against corruption which means that anti-corruption authorities have to work further and build on their achievements, an official said Tuesday.

Abla Abu Olbeh, a member of the Royal committee to monitor and evaluate progress in implementing the National Integrity Charter, said the efforts of anti-corruption bodies have resulted in “great accomplishments”, highlighting the need for endorsing anti-corruption laws that can replace the Royal committee’s plans.

“Fighting corruption does not occur through committees or commissions… and should not only be exercised by regulatory authorities,” she said at an event marking International Anti-Corruption Day, which is observed on December 9.  

The former deputy said fighting corruption should be in partnership with local organisations, political parties and social bodies to increase popular participation.

Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) President Samih Bino said the commission constantly seeks to deepen its cooperation with the international community and with local regulatory and concerned bodies.

Bino noted that the ACC Law, issued in 2006, has been amended twice to protect witnesses and informants in corruption cases and to prevent the statute of limitation from enabling those involved in corruption to escape accountability after a certain period of time.

“Amendments have added money laundering, graft and disclosure refusal crimes to the jurisdiction of the commission,” he said, adding that the ACC is looking forward to the completion of the national integrity law, which is expected to expand integrity measures for the three authorities, the private sector, media outlets and civil society organisations.

Corruption is a key contributor to recession, hindering social development and threatening national stability, according to Audit Bureau President Mustafa Barari.

He highlighted the role of accountability in preventing the monopoly of authority, adding that enjoying unchecked power leads to corruption.