CORRUPTION disrupts development because it distorts the distribution of resources and development opportunities.
This was the comment of Fiji Council of Social Services executive director Vani Catanasiga while speaking at the International Anti-Corruption Day panel discussion in Lautoka today.
Ms Catanasiga said corruption eroded public trust in institutions, in the rule of law and undermined the investment climate.
She added that civil society played a strategic role in combating corruption through the provision of checks and balances, and improving accountability in public and private sector.
Ms Catanasiga said the energy and passion as civil society must be harnessed to build actions and mount advocacy campaigns with the goal to see a long-term and positive impact on the public services and enhance citizens’ confidence in government institutions.
The two-day meeting is supported by UN PRAC and the Australian Government.
