Remarks by the Chairman of the Anti-Corruption Commission at the ceremony of the Trial Run of CPU Toolkit for the reduction of petty corruption
- Thu, 10 October 2019
Firstly, I would like to mention that the Commission has initiated the acceptance of the World Bank Group's Innovative Beneficiary Engagement Program as a CPU Toolkit for mitigating minor corruption in Myanmar.
The CPU Toolkit enables an officer responsible for preventing corruption, either from the Union Minister's Office or the headquarters in Nay Pyi Taw, to contact a regular citizen who seeks services at a regional office through SMS. This communication aims to inquire about the status of the received service and offer the necessary assistance to the general population. Moreover, it can serve as a portable tool to proactively prevent small-scale corruption, commonly found in lower offices or departments.
In this regard, we would like to emphasize that the CPU Toolkit serves as a connecting mechanism between a regular citizen and a departmental official, facilitating feedback on the provided services. It is important to note that the toolkit is intended to complement the existing complaint mechanism, not replace it.
This Toolkit tool not only addresses anti-corruption measures but also encompasses three vital aspects of good governance in the national government: accountability, transparency, and responsiveness.
Currently, there are 37 CPUs established in 17 Union Ministries and 5 Union-level organizations, with the addition of 3 objectives set for these CPUs. Furthermore, a total of 6 processes have been established.
Commencing today, CPUs from 10 significant ministries will initiate the testing of CPU Toolkits in select townships. Consequently, the respective CPUs will reach out and furnish information to individuals who avail themselves of services through SMS.
The remaining CPUs are diligently striving to commence testing in the near future. To ensure the effective utilization of this handheld tool in these CPUs, the commission would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to the World Bank Group for their invaluable support in terms of technical expertise, financial resources, and manpower.
Likewise, we express our gratitude to the member countries and organizations that have generously supported and endorsed the World Bank Group under the Multi-Donor Trust Fund program. Their assistance has been instrumental in furthering the objectives of the World Bank Group.
In the process of combating corruption, the focus on "prevention" holds much greater efficacy compared to prosecution. By preventing crimes before they occur, it not only minimizes the harm inflicted upon the individuals involved but also safeguards the interests of the state.
If the CPUs fail to function effectively and if government servants do not receive adequate protection, it is noteworthy that they may be subjected to increased grievances, scrutiny and potential prosecution. Therefore, in order to ensure the efficient functioning of the CPUs within the ministries, we earnestly request officials and employees to provide wholehearted support, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration.
Anti-corruption efforts represent a crucial aspect of reform that must be prioritized for the recovery and national development of developing countries transitioning to democracy. In our country, to effectively combat corruption with minimal adverse effects, the commission places greater emphasis on education and prevention measures rather than solely relying on prosecution.
It is foreseeable that the CPU Toolkit has become an integral component of community-oriented public service. This tool is designed to actively listen to the needs and preferences of the public, ensuring their satisfaction in a convenient and efficient manner. The extent of public satisfaction will largely depend on the willingness and dedication of the CPUs to utilize this tool effectively.
Nevertheless, the success of this system hinges upon the collective commitment of department heads, CPUs, branch offices, and the general public to adopt a zero-tolerance stance towards corruption. It is imperative that all stakeholders unite and cooperate with unwavering determination to eradicate corruption. In conclusion, the effectiveness of the system greatly relies on fostering a culture of cooperation and zero tolerance.