Transparency International Initiative Madagascar (TI-MG) calls on newly elected MPs to make a strong commitment to integrity and redouble their efforts to combat corruption, a scourge that continues to undermine the country’s development.
The establishment of the new National Assembly and its permanent bureau was welcomed by TI-MG, which congratulated the elected parliamentarians despite the irregularities noted during the elections. The Lower House is seen as an opportunity to strengthen governance and transparency in the country. TI-MG notably stressed, in its press release published on Monday, July 29, the importance of creating a commission dedicated to good governance, transparency, accountability and the fight against corruption within the National Assembly. This initiative is seen as a significant step towards better management of public affairs and greater transparency.
Citizen aspirations. However, TI-MG recalls that the path to fully transparent and accountable governance remains long. According to the 2023 Corruption Perception Index, this entity recalled, Madagascar ranks 145th out of 180 countries with a score of 26 out of 100, indicating a worrying situation that requires concerted and intensified actions to eradicate corruption. Indeed, the organization strongly encourages deputies to prioritize the interests of citizens in their legislative work. It urges them to “develop laws in accordance with the aspirations of citizens, to use resources judiciously and transparently, and not to abuse parliamentary immunity.” Accountability to citizens is essential, underlines the Transparency International Initiative Madagascar, which hopes to see regular reports on the activities of the National Assembly, as well as an open dialogue with civil society.
Participation active. TI-MG also insists that the National Assembly must become a “true forum for debate,” playing a central role in drafting and discussing laws, as well as monitoring government actions. Active participation by parliamentarians is essential to “ensure that citizens’ voices are heard and to improve the quality of decisions taken.” To this end, the organization calls for increased collaboration with civil society organizations to ensure active citizen participation and increased transparency of government actions. Transparency International Initiative Madagascar reiterates its commitment to “support and monitor the efforts of the National Assembly for transparent, effective and accountable governance towards the Malagasy population.”
Rija R.