The price of corruption: how the misappropriation of funds is holding back Angola's future
UNITA leader Adalberto Costa Júnior (ACJ) has been one of the most outspoken critics of corruption in Angola, highlighting it as one of the main barriers to economic growth and social justice.
According to the UNITA president, corruption undermines the efficiency of public institutions, worsens inequality and erodes citizens' trust in the State.
As a strategy to combat corruption, Adalberto Costa Júnior (ACJ) advocates strengthening the independence of the judicial system, transparency in the management of public finances, and effective accountability for public officials involved in unlawful acts.
In addition, it is suggested that stricter control mechanisms be created, including independent audits and greater civil society participation in governance oversight.
The streamlining of administrative processes also emerges as an essential mechanism for reducing opportunities for corruption.
However, these demands are not without challenges. One likely drawback is resistance from within the institutions themselves, where entrenched networks of interest can hinder deep reforms.
Another difficulty is the political instrumentalisation of the fight against corruption, which could be used to persecute opponents rather than promote impartial justice ⚖️.
There is also the risk of political instability, should reforms be introduced abruptly, without national buy-in.
For this reason, the fight against corruption in Angola requires not only political will, but also institutional balance, inclusive debate and sustained commitment to legality and transparency.
The fight against corruption does not depend on laws alone, but, above all, on consistent conduct on the part of leaders and citizens. Without this, any institutional strategy tends to fail.
Attitudes and actions of institutional leaders
Public officials must lead by example. This means forgoing undue privileges, declaring assets with transparency, and applying a zero-tolerance stance towards corruption.
It is necessary to strengthen internal oversight mechanisms, allow independent audits and guarantee protection for whistleblowers who report wrongdoing.
Appointing officials on merit, rather than favouritism, is essential to reducing networks of corruption.
Above all, it is necessary to ensure that decisions are recorded and accessible, fostering a culture of accountability.
The commitment must be institutional, not selective or conditioned by political interests.
Attitudes and actions of the population
Citizens, too, have an equally decisive role to play. Refusing bribes, reporting unlawful practices and demanding transparency are basic, exemplary attitudes.
Active participation in civil society organisations and monitoring of governmental conduct strengthens public oversight.
It is also important to reject the normalisation of everyday petty corruption, as it sustains a larger system.
Civic and ethical education, both in schools and local communities, supports the building of a long-term culture of integrity.
In short, the fight against corruption requires an alliance between ethical leadership and active citizenship.
When everyone fails, corruption grows. When everyone acts responsibly, the system becomes transparent and trustworthy.
Watch the political debate and the constructive responses of UNITA leader Adalberto Costa Júnior (ACJ)