The seminar on the Role of Parliament in the Fight Against Corruption  drew together more than 100 out of the 250 Mozambican legislators for two days of discussions. This landmark event for the Parliament was supported by UNDP and the Government of Denmark. The seminar was planned by the Parliamentary Finance and Planning Committee,  chaired by its President Eneas Comiche and hosted by the President of the Parliament Veronica Macamo.  

The seminar covered the role for the Parliament in the fight against corruption, as part of a concerted effort by a number of actors including civil society, the media and Government agencies such as the Attorney General and the Minister for Public Affairs.

To underline the importance of the event UNDP acting Resident Representative, Jocelyn Mason, said in his opening words that “the seminar on corruption is a testament to the commitment of the Mozambican Parliament in partnership with civil society and the international community to combat corruption, an evil that has been fought since independence of this country.”

“This event is clear evidence of the political will to adopt effective measures towards prevention, deterrence and punishment of corruption in Mozambique”, stated Mr. Mason. According to him, the Parliament as the legislative body has a particular responsibility for promoting and monitoring the implementation of the anti-corruption legislation.  

In their candid and open discussions, the Parliamentarians acknowledged the high prevalence of corruption, as well as the potential risks facing them as elected officials. The complexity of corruption, and its adverse effects on economic and social development was also heavily debated.

In his closing statement Dr. Comiche underlined that the fight against corruption is not only about legislation but also about a continuing process of educating society about the common good and common responsibilities as citizens, as well as the need of transparency in the political process.

In conveying the view of his colleagues Dr. Comiche said that it is imperative that, as  the representatives of the people, they facilitate the understanding of their constituents about corruption while, crucially, showing transparency in their own actions through the publication of laws, plans, budgets and benefits endowed upon them as Representatives.

He also pointed out that towards this end Parliament should cultivate relationships with institutions dedicated to combating corruption. “We should also develop tools for monitoring corruption and speak about it. This is not only to make visible the activities of the elected but also to facilitate feedback from the electorate” Dr. Comiche added.

Among the conclusions of the seminar was also the need of strengthening the role of the Parliament - on national, provincial and local levels, and for a higher level of dialogue. With the support from UNDP, two further seminars are planned for 2011 for the middle and northern parts of Mozambique, to strengthen the Provincial Assemblies.

More about the UNDP Project Strengthening Parliamentary Oversight