Corruption, often defined as the abuse of entrusted power for private gain, is a pervasive issue that affects societies across the globe.

Whether in politics, business, or daily life, corruption undermines trust, hampers economic development, and erodes the moral fabric of society. The aspiration for a corruption-free or less-corrupt world is not just a lofty ideal but a necessary condition for sustainable development, social equity, and the protection of democratic values.

Corruption includes giving or accepting bribes or inappropriate gifts, double-dealing, under-the-table transactions, manipulating elections, diverting funds, laundering money, and defrauding investors.

Term after term, from one Administration to the next, the word ‘corruption’ has been a buzzword. We have heard the stories, explanations, and excuses for its occurrence, and for the most part, almost nobody has been held accountable. This never-ending thread of events keeps on going like the Energiser Bunny. However, what is the goal or desire? Are we asking for less corruption or a corruption-free Jamaica?

As Jamaicans, we are sometimes witnesses to acts of corruption and may be complicit with the venality that we bitterly complain about. We are so passionate and riled up about the subject when it is discussed, but are we really bothered, concerned, or even repulsed by corruption? Are we willing to take personal responsibility for our contribution to this monster of a problem without duplicity or excuse?

Corruption, if left unchecked, can increase organised crime and other criminal activities that will undoubtedly impact the country. Although Jamaica has lowered its corruption index score, there is still much left to be done. There is a very popular quote by the renowned 19th-century English scholar Lord Acton which is: “Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.”

This is true, and individuals who hold positions of power exhibits this behaviour on a regular basis — in business, government, the media, civil society, security forces, and even educational institutions. A corrupt act is sometimes done in plain sight, but mostly in secret to mask character. It is a deed that can involve anyone, from the uneducated to the individual who boasts a terminal degree and is seeking to become a professor.

Impact of Corruption

Corruption impacts all of us, from our homes to our jobs, and indeed the wider society. It threatens sustainable development, moral values, and fairness. It is highly capable of destabilising a country, organisation, or institution. It undermines the institution’s ability to function and devalues its effectiveness.

Individuals who are in positions of power should be mindful that accountability and responsibility are expected always and never forget that they are required to remain trustworthy. Corruption erodes the trust we have in the people who are supposed to act in the best interest of the institution that they represent. Self-gratification is not the goal.

Poor management and corrupt practices erodes the wealth and credibility of any establishment. It contaminates the quality process and injects a virus that can utterly destroys it, if not effectively addressed. Management does not happen in a vacuum; leaders are always acting within a larger organisational context. They are governed by processes and policies, which should not be altered to suit any situation they singularly choose. A deliberate breach of policy and quality standards can be viewed as an act of corruption, though there is no monetary gain to be derived.

Some managers are in it for the glory, as they work for the applause rather than the cause, while they throw others under the bus. I have seen managers who were integrity- and competency-tested and failed wretchedly.

A corrupt act is one that is, in most cases, if not all, self-gratifying. Me, myself, and I are front and centre when the act is being contemplated. The consequences do not deter the actions of the individual, because the blinkers are affixed and the hearing aid does not work. They become a law unto themselves, and good judgement takes a back seat in the decision-making process. There may be no direct/indirect punishment on record for the individual, neither will it be recorded on their curriculum vitae. It becomes a skeleton in the closet, and the perpetrator dons a façade daily without remorse.

Corruption has a negative influence on social trust, as it dampens expectations. Adherence to good governance builds trust, as it creates an environment in which corruption struggles to flourish. Failure to adhere to the practices of good governance means stakeholders increasingly demand accountability. Its impact goes beyond unscrupulous individuals to innocent colleagues who may be implicated or the organisation’s reputation damaged.

The path to a corruption-free or less-corrupt society is undoubtedly challenging, requiring concerted efforts from governments, institutions, and citizens alike. However, the benefits are well worth the effort. This in turn is likely to reinforce a culture that fosters strong ethical behaviour while holding those to account who violate the norms. We must be strident in our quest for a healthier society.

To aspire to be corruption-free is to dream of utopia. Because wherever there are people, there will be corruption. It is said that everybody has a price. Will you be able to refuse if your price is offered?

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