KATHMANDU: President Ram Chandra Paudel has emphasized that good governance and transparency are essential for ensuring the benefits of democracy reach the people.

Speaking at a program marking the 34th founding day of the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) on Monday, he highlighted the importance of fulfilling the public’s high expectations for development and good governance by improving citizens’ living standards.

He proposed that for the nation’s welfare, interests, and international reputation, integrity, impartiality, transparency, and fearlessness should be prioritized as core values.

President Paudel stressed the need for reforms in policies, practices, and approaches that promote discipline and integrity. He also noted that an undue attachment to power leads to corruption, as individuals exploit processes and systems for personal benefit.

“The benefits of democracy cannot reach the people without good governance and transparency. By improving the living standards of citizens and meeting their aspirations for development and good governance, we must work in the nation’s best interests and enhance its international image,” President Paudel said.

“We must focus on ethics, impartiality, transparency, and fearlessness as our guiding principles. It’s vital to establish a system based on discipline and ethics, making reforms in policies and practices effective. Obsession with power often leads to corruption by exploiting processes and systems,” he added.

The President also acknowledged that the rapid growth of information technology has made corruption methods more intricate and complex. He pointed out that as the nature and form of corruption evolve, investigation and prosecution strategies must adapt accordingly.

Additionally, he recommended that the government stay vigilant and take timely action to prevent the misuse of public funds and budget programs.