KATHMANDU, FEBRUARY 11

President Ramchandra Paudel has said corruption and corrupt attitudes are hurdles to nation's development and progress.

Addressing a programme organised on the occasion of the 33rd establishment day of the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) here today, the Head of the State said corruption and corruption mentality have eroded moral values, weakening the foundation of the nation.

As he asserted, political determination is the take-off point for the prevention of corruption. 'The level of transparency and accountability of government will have a role in the prevention of corruption. The more transparency and a sense of accountability in the governance, there lies a high possibility for corruption control, according to the President.

He drew attention of all public entities to maintain transparency in each their actions and decisions. 'This is also the spirit of a federal democratic republic system that was possible due to a significant sacrifice and struggle of the Nepali citizens.'

The President underscored the need for a transformation in the existing working culture, citing it as instrumental in containing corruption. He urged the CIAA to ensure impartiality in its investigations and subsequent prosecutions. Considering good governance as the lifeline of democracy, he believed that achieving economic prosperity and social justice, utilizing natural, humanitarian, and cultural resources, is essential for preventing corruption.

President Paudel called upon everyone to embrace simplicity, integrity, transparency, and good conduct. He urged the CIAA to address the public's interest, ensuring that high-profile individuals are not exempt from accountability for abuse of authority and corruption.

Expressing hope for increased awareness against corruption and Nepal's improvement in the global corruption index, the President called for a collective effort from the three-tier government, civil society, private sector, media, and citizens to combat corruption.