KATHMANDU, Dec 9: Various development partners in Nepal have stressed the need for holding credible and transparent local elections in order to combat corruption and ensure accountability in the country.
The development partners said the current period of political transformation provides a unique opportunity to strengthen system, attitudes, and practices of accountability and integrity.
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“With the new Constitution and progress underway toward a new state structure, now is a critical time for all stakeholders to show leadership in combating corruption at all levels and in all forms,” they said in a joint statement, while stressing on the need to hold credible and transparent local level election.
Those issuing joint statement include Asian Development Bank, Embassy of Australia, Embassy of Denmark, Embassy of Finland, Embassy of France, Embassy of Germany, Embassy of Israel, Embassy of Republic of India, Embassy of the UK and DFID, EU Delegation to Nepal, JICA Nepal Office, Royal Norwegian Embassy, UN Resident Coordinator's Office, USAID and the World Bank.
The development partners have commended the government for undertaking its first review cycle of its obligations under the UN Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC).
“We support the government's efforts to revise its legislation in line with the UNCAC commitments and urge the government to also prioritize implementation and enforcement of the legislation and anti-corruption measures,” the statement said.
The development partners have noted that a broad range of Nepali stakeholders had taken some encouraging initiatives to promote the culture of transparency and integrity throughout the country. “The efforts to boost integrity in the judiciary, among other, and contributions by civil society actors in addressing anti-corruption issues are commendable,” it said.
They also maintained that Nepal's commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) provides an opportunity for all stakeholders to join hands in the work against corruption.
'Nepal's transition is a historic moment to make lasting change for the benefit of generations to come. As international development partners we stand ready to continue our support for a shared vision of Nepal as a country that delivers integrity and accountability for all its population,” the statement added.
