EDITORIAL

On Corruption

As a developing nation, Nepal has a plethora of problems that it has to tackle. Among these, one of the most vexing ones, is the problem of corruption. Of course, corruption is not a recent problem, it has been there since time immemorial. However, what has been a matter of grave concern, is the rapid manner in which the level of corruption has escalated. Perhaps realising this factor, political leaders and experts at a seminar organised by the Political Science Association of Nepal (POLSAN) and Transparency International Nepal (TIN) the other day, painted a bleak picture of the Kingdom adversely affected by rising corruption. According to them, this social malaise has hindered national development and posed a serious threat to the democratic system. They are quite right in saying this, as corruption has not only severely damaged the economy of the nation, but it has also steadily weakened the whole social fabric of the people in general. It is alarming, the way many are seeking easy money, even if it has to be earned illegally. It is further distressing how the society seems to accept such people though it is known they are involved in immoral and illegal activities.

No doubt, a strong political commitment and firm laws are necessary to control, if not eliminate this social evil. But like pointed out by Chief Justice Mohan Prasad Sharma, who was the chief guest at the seminar, "There is no lack of laws in the country to fight corruption, what is lacking is civic sense and morality". Indeed, just laws are not enough to fight corruption, the will and courage to implement them is equally important. Furthermore, awareness among the people is also crucial. If corrupt people were abhorred by the society and boycotted socially, it would become much more difficult for this malpractice to flourish the way we have seen it do in recent years. Therefore, pressure must be created from every side to eliminate corruption that is crippling the whole nation and creating an unequal distribution of wealth. Tough laws, the sincerity to implement them and public awareness are vital for such an environment to be created. The present state of the country having a majority government and political stability, should enhance the environment to achieve this lofty target.

(Editorial in The Rising Nepal, June 27, Sunday)