Somalia’s new PM pledges to fight corruption, vows reforms

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somalia’s prime minister on Saturday pledged to form a government that would fight corruption and seeks to restore faith in the rule of law in the long-chaotic Horn of Africa nation.

The PM's statement came during a tour to key financial sources in Mogadishu, including the seaport to discuss the economic situation with the finance minister, central bank governor, and the relevant authorities.

This the first time the new premier announcing his yet-to-be formed government’s plan in the fight against graft and mismanagement of the public funds, which is the biggest factor in the economic deterioration.

Last Thursday, the Somali cabinet approves a $671.8 Million national budget for 2021. The world bank has announced 3 days ago that Somalia’s economy is expected to shrink by 2.5% this year, revising its initial forecast of 3.2% growth due to the impact of the coronavirus, locust, and flood crisis.

Somali security forces arrested the officials in April on charges of embezzling official funds donated to curb the coronavirus pandemic, among others.

The country of more than 10 million people has so far confirmed 3,941 virus cases, including 104 deaths and 3,185 recoveries, according to the ministry of health.

For decades, Somalia ranks among the world's most corrupt countries due to a lack of strong institutions and effective leaders. Insecurity is also a major issue; greatly restricts business and investment.

More than 20 officials, mostly from the Health Ministry were arrested, several bank accounts are frozen while substantial evidence including fake receipts, payment slips, cheques, and fake deals seized.

The term-ending Farmajo-led government has come under increasing pressure recently from the opposition and donors, including the U.S. and EU over the issue of pandemic corruption.

State-building is hampered by large-scale corruption and misappropriation of public funds. There is no developed revenue system as the country’s institutions are dysfunctional, and there are no integrity mechanisms in place to curb corruption.

In addition, International funding and payments made at sea and airports are the main sources of revenue for the country, but there is no transparency in the collection or distribution of these funds.

GAROWE ONLINE