The Vice-chairperson of Transparency International (TI) Board of Directors, Elena Panfilova on working visit in the country has lauded Rwanda National Police (RNP) for its efforts in combating corruption, saying that the measures put in place by the force are impressive and need to be sustained.
Panfilova made the observation on February 24, during her visit at the Police Headquarters where she met with the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Emmanuel K Gasana and other some Police Commissioners.
During the meeting, the Police Chief acknowledged Panfilova for the courtesy call and explained measure and strategies put in place to fight corruption, where he pointed out that police being a law enforcement institution has the duty to investigate crimes including corruption and particularly within the force.
The measures include annual declaration of wealth by all Police senior officers, establishment of the department of anti-corruption, inspectorate of services and Ethics, the Police Disciplinary Unit, annual Performance contracts among others.
The IGP informed TI boss that RNP has also signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with several institutions including the Office of the Ombudsman, Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), National Commission for Human Rights, and all the 30 districts; the MoUs are geared towards a collective efforts and strategies in fighting graft.
He also explained that that the police use various channels including toll free lines and the media to respond to public concerns and receive information as well as complaints of those reporting corruption.
“All these measures are put in place to ensure we don’t go off the line – In fact, our institutions in the country have no remorse for any corrupt officials irrespective of what position the person hold or the amount involved in the case, we also appreciate our partnership with Transparency international, Rwanda Chapter for keeping us informed of the bribery and corruption perception,” IGP Gasana said.
“We have had some cases of police officers involved in corruption and they were punished including dismissal regardless of the amount or value involved, rather the unethical act committed, we know very well its effects to development and any nation built on corrupt institutions has to collapse at one point by all means” the IGP said.
In her remarks, Panfilova said that the purpose of her visit was to exchange ideas with the people of Rwanda, Government official and development partners and share her experience as well as global status of corruption.
“The anti-corruption strategies and policies you developed here are commendable; I was particularly impressed with how the Police here work in openness with NGOs ,the Civil Society and other government institutions” she said.
She further pointed out that Rwanda is far better than many countries in Europe in fighting corruption.
“We need to share most of these best practices that have worked in some countries and help others to emulate”
Panfilova also noted that in dealing with emerging corruption related crimes, the world today needs to internationalize corruption related crimes in ensuring that offenders have no safe haven.
Both the IGP and the TI vice chairperson agreed to farther strengthen cooperation in the quest to fight against corruption.