By Forum staff writer
The Commissioner of the Anti-Corruption Commission Francis Ben Kaifala has said the Commission is always effective in dealing with corruption cases, saying that the commission imposed the highest sanction ever recorded in Sierra Leone by banning the wife of a public official from holding public office for a minimum of five years. He made the statement while speaking on AYV Television’s Wake Up Sierra Leone programme as part of public engagement on recent corruption investigations.
According to Kaifala the decision demonstrated the Commission’s resolve to apply the law without fear or favour. He noted that sanctions are determined strictly by evidence and the provisions of the Anti Corruption Act and not by public sentiment or political pressure. He emphasized that the penalty reflects the seriousness of the breach established by investigators and approved through due process.
Addressing public debate surrounding the Office of the President Kaifala clarified concerns about hotel payments allegedly linked to presidential travel. He explained that during initial enquiries a hotel in Lebanon declined to release information to individuals making informal requests. The Commissioner said the hotel indicated it was uncomfortable disclosing sensitive records to just anyone seeking such details.
However he stated that the situation changed once the Anti Corruption Commission made an official request in line with international cooperation procedures. Kaifala disclosed that the hotel has since formally confirmed to the Commission that all receipts issued to the Office of the President were normal valid and authentic. He said this confirmation formed part of the Commission’s findings and helped address misinformation circulating in the public space.
Kaifala stressed that the presidency should not be treated as an ordinary institution and that investigations involving the Office of the President must be handled with accuracy professionalism and respect for the law. He added that while no office is above scrutiny the Commission is equally responsible for protecting institutions from false allegations that could undermine public trust.
The ACC boss also reflected on his personal commitment to the role noting that he accepted the position with a clear purpose. He said he did not go to the Anti Corruption Commission to play but to change the narrative of Sierra Leone for the better. According to him the fight against corruption is about restoring confidence in governance and ensuring that public resources serve citizens.
Kaifala said the Commission remains open to public scrutiny and media engagement as part of transparency efforts. He encouraged citizens to rely on verified information and to allow investigations to run their course before drawing conclusions. He reaffirmed the ACC’s determination to continue enforcing the law fairly while strengthening integrity accountability and good governance across the country.
He further explained that combating corruption requires patience institutional discipline and cooperation from all sectors of society including the media civil servants and the general public. Kaifala said sustainable progress will depend on consistent enforcement of the law and continuous public education. He expressed confidence that with collective effort Sierra Leone can build stronger institutions reduce corruption risks and secure a future based on justice fairness and national credibility. He urged citizens to support reforms and uphold national values through lawful responsible conduct nationwide.
