Letter of the Day | Normalisation of corruption undermines democracy
Published:Saturday | September 28, 2024 | 12:06 AM
THE EDITOR, Madam:
The Gleaner editorial of September 25 unearths the cause of the normalisation of corruption in Jamaica stemming from the 1990s which now have detrimental effects, creating a permissive atmosphere for unethical behaviour and further entrenching corrupt practices.
As corruption becomes more routine, it often leads to a dangerous cycle in which key watchdog institutions, established to keep such behaviour in check, are systematically undermined.
Sadly, our politicians have become conveyors of such unethical behaviours, as they appear desirous of demanding or taking upon themselves powers not authorised in the Constitution of Jamaica nor the oversight committees they participate in.
Justice Minister Delory Chuck is one such victim. His call for the Integrity Commission (IC) to be “mandated to certify the prime minister’s declaration, forthwith,” ( The Gleaner, September 25), is a form of bullyism, and placing the integrity of the nation’s parliament under gross suspicion.
We have witnessed over time specific instances where politicians have tried to muzzle or undermine the IC’s reports. Even the Speaker of the House of Representatives got caught in delay tactics in tabling such reports. Clearly, under the guise of calling to review the functions of the IC, because it did not “say what we want”, is an attempt to not only weaken that particular body but erodes the standard of accountability expected from public officials. By forcing or coercing such certifications, these actions will create a precedent that could be exploited by future leaders, exacerbating the problem.
Our trapped political tribalism has coloured our quest for accountability and justice. When corruption becomes normalised, there is less public outrage and fewer demands for accountability. This apathy allows politicians and other powerful figures to operate with greater impunity, knowing they are less likely to face repercussions.
Let us not forget that institutions like the Integrity Commission, Financial Investigations Division, Revenue Protection Division, Jamaica Customs Agency, and Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency are specifically designed to hold both officials and citizens accountable. However, their effectiveness depends on their independence and ability to operate without interference. Normalisation of corruption often leads to these bodies being targeted by those they are meant to oversee.
When high-ranking officials like our politicians succeed in imposing such restrictions, it sends a message that corruption is not only acceptable but also protected by the highest offices. This can lead to a culture where unethical practices become further entrenched across various levels of government and society.
The undermining of anti-corruption bodies results in a significant erosion of public trust. Citizens become cynical about the effectiveness of democratic institutions, which can lead to decreased civic engagement and a weakening of democratic norms.
Ultimately, the normalisation of corruption is a threat to democracy and good governance. Vigilance, public awareness, and a strong civil society are critical in supporting and protecting the independence and integrity of corruption watchdog bodies. It’s essential that these institutions operate free of political pressure, to ensure accountability and uphold the rule of law.
DUDLEY MCLEAN II