TIMORR-LESTE GOVERMENT TAKES POSITIF STEPS TO FIGHT CORRUPTION

Dili, 08 April 2004
The recent discovery of misappropriation of funds by Government District Finance Officers has been met with a firm and serious response by the Timor-Leste Government.

In February and March of 2004, two instances of misappropriation of funds occurred. The funds, intended for community development under the Community Empowerment Program (CEP) were instead appropriated by the Finance Officers for the augmentation of some civil servant salaries.

The Minister of Planning and Finance, Madalena Boavida said today: “It is disappointing that our own civil servants would steal from the Government when we are faced with the difficult task of nation building. We expect all civil servants to be dedicated to our country’s objectives, the most important being the alleviation of poverty.”

The Timor-Leste Government regards these actions as serious violations and has suspended the officials from their duties, assigned the Internal Audit Department to audit the operations of affected districts over the past two years, and instructed The Treasury to reassess established controls and practices to ensure effective prevention of such offences.

It is anticipated that these measures will determine the extent of any misappropriation not only for CEP but throughout CFET district funds and provide the Government with the recourse to take further appropriate action.

Prime Minister Alkatiri has formally requested for an independent investigation by the General Prosecutor, Longuinhos Monteiro, and hopes that such actions by the Timor-Leste government will act as a deterrent for any breach of trust by civil servants and other employees in the public and private sectors in the future. The entry into force of the Civil Service Act, will establish standardized procedures for similar crimes and malpractices.

Prime Minister Alkatiri said: “It is desperately disappointing to hear of such incidents when our country faces such enormous challenges. It further strengthens my resolve to stamp out corruption. It is the commitment of my Government to fight not only for the reconstruction of this shattered nation but to build it on a foundation of principles, transparency and the rule of law.”