ISLAMABAD, Dec 09 (NNI): President Asif Ali Zardari has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to eradicate corruption by enforcing strict accountability measures and promoting transparency in governance.
Over the years, he said Pakistan had taken significant steps to align with international anti-corruption frameworks, including the UNCAC, and had implemented a robust accountability regime.
In his message on the occasion of International Anti-Corruption Day, the president said “Today we are commemorating International Anti-Corruption Day to raise awareness about the pervasive and destructive effects of corruption. This day serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility of all nations to fight corruption, promote transparency, and uphold accountability”.
He highlighted that the observance highlights the commitment of member countries of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), including Pakistan, in their ongoing efforts to eliminate this menace.
“Corruption undermines public trust, drains vital resources, and hampers socio-economic development. However, there is still much to be done, and we must continue to make all efforts to eradicate the habit of corruption from our society,” he remarked.
The president pointed out that the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), as the apex anti-corruption agency, played a central role in investigating and prosecuting corruption cases, as well as in raising public awareness about its harmful effects. “NAB has another vital role in reducing corruption through prevention. Despite NAB’s important role, the fight against corruption cannot be won by one agency alone. The challenge is vast, and its complexity requires all organs of the state to make strenuous endeavours to reduce corruption and pay attention to all root causes of corruption”, he added.
He said in line with this year’s theme of International Anti-Corruption Day “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity”, it was essential that every segment of society, particularly youth, civil society, and citizens joined forces to eliminate corruption.
“They must actively participate in anti-corruption efforts, help promote a culture of accountability, and offer suggestions to improve the anti-corruption framework. A change in our collective behaviour is also needed to create a culture, where corruption is no longer tolerated at any level,” he added.
He assured that resources intended for public welfare would be used for their rightful purpose and that all citizens benefit from transparent, effective governance. “We should create an environment of integrity and transparency and work for a future in which character-building becomes paramount in our society”, he added.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed the government’s commitment to root out corruption at every level, urging the people to play their role in the government’s quest for a corruption-free future.
“On this International Anti-Corruption Day, let us stand together, united in our resolve to build a Pakistan where public resources are utilized efficiently for the welfare of our people,” the prime minister said in a message.
“Let us work together for a future where the rule of law prevails and where accountability is the bedrock for all”, he said.
He said the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and other law enforcement agencies were working tirelessly to ensure that those who misuse power and rob the hard-earned public revenues face the consequences of their actions. “We recognize the hard work of our institutions and stand with them in this important task to root out corruption from society”, he added.
He highlighted that the 9th of December marked the International Anti-Corruption Day, a reminder of the global efforts to confront one of the greatest challenges facing our societies — corruption.
“This year’s theme “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity” rightly highlights the important role that our youth can play in the fight against corruption. Our younger generation deserves a future where they can thrive free from corruption,” he added.
Today, he said Pakistan joined the international community to renew its commitment to transparency, integrity, and accountability for now and for future generations.
He emphasized that corruption was a corrosive element that undermined economic development and destroys the social fabric of societies. “It robs nations of their potential and prevents people from enjoying the benefits of fair governance and equal opportunities. It also distorts public services, diverts resources meant for development, and perpetuates inequality that impacts the lives of ordinary citizens. Corruption is therefore a major reason for distrust between the governments and its citizens,” he remarked.
However, he said the government alone could not win the fight against corruption. He said that it required the collective effort of every citizen, every community and every institution.
He also urged the media to play an active role in exposing malpractices. “This day demands active participation from all who believe in justice and integrity. Each one of us must take responsibility for building a transparent and accountable society,” he added. NNI
