Sylvanus Blake, Deputy Director, PEOD, ACC
The Commissioner of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), Francis Ben Kaifala Esq., has issued a strong call on public officers across Sierra Leone to comply with the ongoing 2026 bi-annual asset declaration exercise.
In his weekly inspirational message published on Wednesday, Commissioner Kaifala specifically urged officials in Grade 7 and above, as well as those holding fiduciary and financial responsibilities, to declare their Income, Assets, and Liabilities in line with Section 119 of the Anti-Corruption Act No. 12 of 2008 (as amended in 2019).
The nationwide exercise, which has officially commenced, will run until July 31, 2026.
Commissioner Kaifala emphasized that asset declaration is not only a statutory obligation but also a demonstration of integrity and patriotism. He described compliance as a conscious decision to uphold transparency and accountability in public service.
The ACC has, in recent years, introduced a fully digitized asset declaration platform developed by the Directorate of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI), aimed at simplifying the process and improving compliance. The system allows public officers to complete their declarations online using mobile devices, tablets, or computers.
According to the Commission, the platform enables users to submit details including personal biodata, assets, bank accounts, investments, and liabilities in a streamlined and confidential manner within a short time.
The digitization initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen preventive measures in the fight against corruption by reducing human interface in public service delivery. Commissioner Kaifala has consistently advocated for cashless and paperless systems, noting that such reforms are key to minimizing corruption risks and enhancing efficiency.
The ACC noted that the new system eliminates the challenges associated with manual processes, including paperwork, storage, and administrative delays, while improving transparency and ease of access.
Public officers have been encouraged to visit the Commission’s official website to complete their declarations promptly. Registration requires a valid identification document, such as a passport or National Identity Card.
Failure to comply within the stipulated period carries significant administrative sanctions, including salary suspension, withholding of benefits, and possible termination of service. The Commission revealed that in 2025, several senior officials faced such penalties before eventually complying.
The ACC has reiterated that timely compliance remains the most straightforward path, urging all affected officials to fulfill their obligations and support the ongoing efforts to promote integrity in public service.
