The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) observed the 18th anniversary of its Foundation Day on 31 December 2023. It was a unique opportunity to reflect on the extraordinary journey that commenced under the Royal Decree of 31 December 2005 of His Majesty The Fourth Druk Gyalpo. The establishment of the ACC was the Enlightened Vision and national commitment to curb and root out the menace of corruption and set a strong foundation for democratic principles even as the country transitioned to a Democratic Constitutional Monarchy.
The last 18 year of the relentless fight against corruption has been guided by the Wisdom of His Majesty The King, bolstered by the support of various agencies, successive governments and the general public, and executed through the dedication of past and present ACC staff. Over the years, the ACC has made substantial progress, as evident in the improved Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index score and rank, and the National Integrity Score at the international and national levels, respectively. Although the journey ahead for the ACC remains tall and exacting with rapidly evolving corruption complexities amidst uncertainties, ACC commits to the fulfilment of its sacred responsibilities and mandate with undivided dedication and unremitting resolve.
As the ACC turns 18, this anniversary is of particular significance in terms of transition to greater maturity and carrying the expectations that the institution, armed with experience and deeper insights into the intricacies of corruption, will adeptly address the emerging and complex corruption issues. This anniversary therefore necessitated not only reflection on the past but also setting the tone for the future. In alignment with the Strategic Roadmap and the Mission 114, the ACC aims for a paradigm shift towards proactive action and greater research and intelligence based anti-corruption interventions to contribute to the realization of the national goals Envisioned by His Majesty The King.
The day commenced with the hoisting of prayer flags and a heartfelt pledge to serve the Tsa Wa Sum with renewed vigor and dedication. In a symbolic gesture, the ACC staff imprinted a resounding “Yes” on the ‘དམ་བཅའ’ wall, featuring the powerful words “Are you ready to shoulder this responsibility with me?’’ from the Royal Address on the 116th National Day.
Butter lamps and prayers were offered in the ACC Head Office and the three Regional Offices for the long life of His Majesty The King. The five longest serving staff who have been with ACC since its inception were honoured with the ACC plaque as a token of appreciation and gratitude for their service. The revised Investigation Management & Operation Manual, Rules for Integrity Vetting 2024, Guidelines on Operation & Management of Escrow Account, and various in-house IT systems were formally launched. Likewise, the Working Parents’ Corner and the Library Annex developed primarily by ACC volunteers, and the Integrity Champion Page on the ACC website, a digital space to honour individuals, teams, or entities that exemplify integrity, professionalism and altruism, were inaugurated. The ACC family extended their heartfelt wishes to 12 recipients of promotions effective from January 2024.
As the ACC family welcomes the New Year with hope and optimism, we extend our sincere wishes for a year filled with happiness, good health and mindfulness. Together, let us transform Vision into reality and collectively shape a future defined by our shared values.