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FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION IN SOMALIA June 1, 2005
The president of Somalia’s northeastern region, Puntland fired many officials in his government after a lengthy corruption and fraud investigation. Fired officials could not prove how a large amount of money missing from government tax and public services accounts was used. The amount of the missing money was not disclosed and no criminal charges were laid so far.
A reliable source told SomaliNet that most revenue from Bosaso airport never reached government accounts and the airport workers from cashiers to the head of the airport knew about the mismanagement. It is not only stolen money but people with connections could use the airport without paying fees or taxes. The source also said other branches of the government are now under investigation and everyone is nervous about it. “Before Mr. Adde came to power, people who had access to money could get rich easily. Now, they are forced to live off their salaries alone.†Said the source.
The new Puntland President Mr. Mohamud Muse, as known as Adde is very strict and doesn’t shy away from firing corrupt officials. He lost some close friends due to his stand on corruption and government accountability.