Why Are Corrupt Heads-of-Government No Longer Willing to Retire from Office?
There are certainly various reasons why corrupt heads of state may be reluctant to retire from office, the most relevant being the fear of prosecution and punishment. Stepping down from office exposes leaders to legal action, prosecution, and even imprisonment for their corrupt activities while in power.
A few elements feeding into the fear of prosecution and punishment are:
Successful legal implementation and enforcement of anti-corruption measures
International scrutiny
Public awareness and activism
Diminished safe havens
Increased use of the above by political opponents
While there have been positive developments towards removing and prosecuting corrupt leaders, the system is far from perfect. Even in the face of efforts to ease a leader’s exit from office, there is no guarantee that the leader will ultimately relinquish power, and there is a chance that the success of the anti-corruption community could result in some problems, with corrupt leaders taking other steps to protect themselves: closing down local and foreign NGOs, running construction through military channels, the Executive Branch capturing the other branches of government, self-serving intentions when permitting unlimited reelections etc.
Pressure from citizens, the role of civil society, in combination with legislation and the consistent enforcement of expectations, can help continue to push governments to hold their leaders accountable to ensure the safety of the citizens and the country. Continuing to educate voters on the power they have when casting their ballot will inherently threaten to hold leaders accountable. With the knowledge that their term could end, resulting in their vulnerability and lack of immunity, leaders could be more likely to avoid corrupt activities to ensure their long-lasting reign and subsequent legacy.
Governments can also look inward to build up protections against corrupt leaders. Separating branches of power with an effective system of checks and balances, clearly written and enforced codes of conduct that are reviewed and updated regularly, and training surrounding good governance and compliance expectations can educate those in influential positions on the importance of transparency and accountability.
Partner, Dentons Ecuador
President, Center for the Study of Bribery, Extortion and Coercion Situations