The Public Prosecutor, Mr. Josaia Naigulevu on Thursday 29th of April 2021 presented the proposed Anti-Corruption Authority policy paper to be tabled before the Council of Ministers, to the Ombudsman and the staff of the Office of the Ombudsman. The presentation took place at the Melanesian Hotel.
The Anti-Corruption concept is expected to be jointly administered by the Office of the Ombudsman and the Office of the Public Prosecutor.
The Ombudsman, Mr. Hamlison Bulu and his staff expressed their satisfaction and gratitude towards the proposed policy paper as it will expand their functions placing the need to, not only expand the capacity of the two institutions, but will also enhance closer working relationship between the two independent institutions.
Vanuatu acceded to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) on 12th of July 2011 was the fourth Pacific Island State to become a party to this ground breaking international treaty. It is approximately 10 years now that Vanuatu has been a member.
However, the country is yet to implement the UNCAC. The paper deliberated on envelopes the key reforms that will ensure accountability, responsive and transparent leadership not only on part of the leaders in Vanuatu but the people in Vanuatu at large.
The Anti-Corruption initiative is established by Article 36 of the UNCAC. The specific provision echoes the fundamental principles of its legal system, calling an existence body, bodies or persons that is specialized in combating corruption through law enforcement.
A body, bodies, or persons as such shall be granted the necessary independence, reflecting the fundamental principles of the legal system of the State Party, to be able to carry out their functions effectively without any undue influence. Such persons or staff of the same should have the appropriate training and resources to carry out the Anti-Corruption Authority’s tasks.
The Ombudsman and the Public Prosecutor’s Offices will share the administrative functions of the Anti-Corruption Authority.
