ACC Wraps Up Southern Region Meet the People Tour on Corruption Awareness

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has concluded the Southern Region leg of its nationwide Meet the People Tour with traditional and local authorities, engaging Paramount Chiefs across Moyamba, Bonthe, Pujehun, and Bo Districts from 2nd to 5th June 2026.

The engagement focused on strengthening integrity, accountability, and collaboration with traditional leaders in the fight against corruption at the grassroots level.

Speaking during the tour, ACC Deputy Commissioner Augustine Foday Ngobie highlighted the importance of involving chieftaincy institutions in anti-corruption efforts, noting existing gaps in awareness around legal obligations such as gifts, conflict of interest, assets declaration, and corruption reporting.

ACC Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala emphasized the need to align anti-corruption laws with customary practices, clarifying that while gift-giving is not prohibited, it becomes an issue when it creates a conflict of interest. He further stated that gifts above Le5,000 must be declared, and stressed that assets declaration serves as a safeguard for transparency and protection of public officials.

Paramount Chiefs welcomed the initiative, expressed appreciation for the clarifications provided, and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting anti-corruption efforts within their communities. They also pledged continued cooperation in promoting accountability and reporting corruption.

The tour was chaired by ACC Coordinator of Operations Patrick Sandi, who thanked participants for their engagement and encouraged sustained collaboration with the Commission.

The ACC said the successful completion of the Southern Region tour marks another milestone in its public education and prevention strategy, following earlier engagements in the Eastern and North-Eastern Regions, and continues to strengthen partnerships with traditional authorities in the fight against corruption.