Redefining Corruption Beyond Financial Misconduct: Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem's Insight
In a thought-provoking statement, the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, presented a broader definition of corruption, challenging the common perception that it solely involves the embezzlement of public funds. Her remarks shed light on a deeper, more pervasive form of corruption rooted in negligence, unethical behavior, and the cultural norms in public service.
Corruption Is More Than Financial Theft
Justice Dongban-Mensem emphasized that corruption goes beyond the act of stealing government money. While financial corruption is often highlighted in public discourse, she pointed out that failing to carry out one’s duties and responsibilities is also a form of corruption. According to her, this behavior reflects a disregard for professional ethics and a lack of accountability, both of which contribute to the deterioration of public service.
“Corruption is not only about peddling money. People believe that stealing government money is what constitutes corruption. I dare to say that corruption is failing to do what you ought to do,” she stated during a live broadcast by Symfoni.
Personal Experiences of Corruption in Everyday Interactions
Justice Dongban-Mensem shared her own experiences in public offices, where a more subtle form of corruption is evident in daily interactions. She recounted instances where messengers and office staff would ignore her presence unless she was accompanied by a police orderly. This behavior, she noted, is symptomatic of a larger issue where respect and service are only rendered based on an individual’s perceived status or authority.
“I have walked into offices and experienced messengers sitting at their desks, looking at me without acknowledging my presence. However, if I am accompanied by a police orderly, the same staff will quickly greet the officer and offer him a seat, while I am left standing,” she explained. This kind of behavior, she argued, reflects a culture of indifference and a lack of basic respect for individuals who are not seen as authority figures.
The Culture of Expecting Favors and Informal Payments
Justice Dongban-Mensem also highlighted another insidious form of corruption: the expectation of informal payments or favors in exchange for services. She pointed out that in many public offices, staff often expect individuals to offer something in return for assistance, a practice that undermines the principles of public service and professionalism.
“When you visit an office, there is often an unspoken expectation that you should put your hands in your pocket before you receive the help you need. This behavior is widespread and has become normalized in our society,” she said.
A Call for Ethical Public Service
Justice Dongban-Mensem’s remarks call attention to the need for a cultural shift in how public servants approach their duties. Corruption, in her view, is not limited to high-profile cases of financial misconduct but extends to everyday actions that compromise the integrity of public institutions. She called for a renewed commitment to ethical standards and accountability in public service, urging individuals to perform their duties without expecting personal gain or favors.
Her message underscores the importance of addressing the deeper, often overlooked forms of corruption that erode trust in public institutions and hinder the delivery of services to the people.
Conclusion
Justice Dongban-Mensem's perspective broadens the understanding of corruption, moving the focus away from financial embezzlement to include failures in ethical conduct and responsibility. By sharing her personal experiences and highlighting the cultural issues in public service, she urges society to recognize and combat these everyday forms of corruption that often go unnoticed but have significant consequences on governance and public trust
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