By Amadu Wurie Timbo
The Anti-Corruption Commission’s (ACC) announcement that 81% of targeted public officers have complied with the 2026 Asset Declaration Exercise represents another important step in Sierra Leone’s fight against corruption. While the figure demonstrates significant progress, it also underscores the need to achieve full compliance, particularly as the declaration deadline comes to a close.
According to ACC Coordinator of Operations Patrick Sandi, 13,036 out of 16,144 targeted public officers have submitted their asset declarations, with the online portal closing on 21 August 2026. His warning that defaulters could face legal sanctions, including salary suspension and possible dismissal, sends a clear message: asset declaration is a legal obligation, not a voluntary exercise.
The previous declaration cycle reportedly recorded an impressive 99.54% compliance rate, demonstrating that near-universal adherence is achievable when institutions remain committed to enforcing the law. Maintaining and ultimately improving upon that standard should remain a priority.
Equally encouraging are the Commission’s broader anti-corruption efforts. The investigation of 107 corruption cases, successful prosecution of six cases and recovery of more than NLe1.3 million point to continued efforts to hold individuals accountable and recover public resources.
The Commission’s increasing use of digital technology, with support from the Directorate of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), is another positive development. Plans to introduce mobile-based asset declaration services could make the process more accessible and help public officers comply with their legal obligations in a timely manner.
However, an 81% compliance rate also means that thousands of targeted public officers had yet to declare their assets at the time the figure was announced. That gap should not be overlooked. Effective accountability requires the law to be applied consistently, regardless of an official’s position or influence.
Ultimately, the fight against corruption cannot depend on enforcement by the ACC alone. It requires public officials to embrace transparency and citizens to remain vigilant and report suspected acts of corruption.
As Sierra Leone continues efforts to strengthen its governance institutions, full compliance with asset declaration requirements should remain the goal. Asset declaration is more than an administrative exercise; properly enforced, it is an important mechanism for promoting accountability, safeguarding public resources and strengthening citizens’ trust in public institutions.