Introduction
Sumar has introduced a bill to establish an independent office dedicated to fighting corruption. This measure, announced by the second vice president, Yolanda Díaz, arises in the midst of the ‘Koldo case’ scandal and aims to create an organization with investigative capacity in public institutions, political parties, unions and companies that receive subsidies from the State.
Background
The bill presented by Sumar is a direct response to recent revelations about illegal commissions on the sale of masks during the pandemic at the Ministry of Transportation. The leader of Sumar, in an interview on Al Rojo Vivo, highlighted the need to address these types of corruption situations effectively and without falling into partisan confrontation.
After this announcement, Yolanda Díaz convened her group to begin preparing a series of measures against corruption, this proposal being the most notable. Although the Socialist Party does not yet know the full content of the law, it is expected that they will accept it during its parliamentary processing process.
Creation of the Corruption Prevention Office
The proposed law seeks to establish a Corruption Prevention Office with the objective of preventing, detecting, investigating and eradicating corruption, fraud and misuse of public funds. This office will also be in charge of addressing conflicts of interest and the improper use of information derived from the exercise of public functions.
Among the proposed measures is the creation of an early warning system to detect irregularities and incorrect administrative practices. In addition, a comprehensive corruption prevention strategy will be developed based on a risk analysis and on-site inspections will be carried out in public agencies and private entities that receive subsidies.
Investigation and election of the director
One of the most important functions of this office will be the ability to carry out investigations independently. Office officials will have the power to carry out inspections and examine documents in any public agency or private entity that receives subsidies.
The election of the director of the office will be carried out through Congress, where parliamentary groups will be able to present their proposals. If a three-fifths majority is not achieved within six months, the appointment may be made by absolute majority.
Conclusion
The bill presented by Sumar seeks to establish an independent anti-corruption office with investigative capacity. This measure aims to prevent, detect and eradicate corruption in all its forms, both in public institutions and in private entities that receive subsidies. The creation of this office represents an important step in the fight against corruption and demonstrates the government’s commitment to this crucial issue for society.
