PARAMARIBO – President Jennifer Simons recently condemned the stubborn corruption culture that exists within the government and the state companies.

She explained that there are not just a few individual theft cases but that there is a system in place that is deeply rooted and that this system must be dismantled step by step. “Each act of corruption is condemndable whereever it is committed,” said President Simons. The head of state made it clear that the fight against corruption can only be credible when the government sets a good example. She referred to the Anti Corruption Act which obligates state employees and government officials to register their possessions and interests. “The people have often heard that governments would tackle corruption but they also want to believe that it will actually happen,” said President Simons who added that her administration is working hard to make sure that the required documents will be delivered to the notary. President Simons pleaded for more transparency during the enforcement of this law. The statements are currently sealed before being stored which means that the nation does not know what is written on them. “We must see if we can open this system because transparency boosts trust.” President Simons warned that the lack of checks and balances within organizations would push honest coworkers out. “When somebody has the courage to say something, that person is often removed or excluded. That is how we get a system where people tend to look the other way instead of blowing the whistle.” President Simons announced that her administration would breathe new life into the Anti Corruption Commission. “We must not wait until corruption is detected. The commission must actively find out where there are “weak spots’ before making recommendations on how to prevent irregularities,” Simons said.