The Role of the Observatory of Code of Ethicsfor Public Officials (OCEP) in the Fight Corruption in the Republic Democraric of Congo (DRC): A Case Sudy of Kinshasa City

Abstract

This study sought to determine the role of the Observatory of Code of Ethics for Public Official (OCEP) in the fight against corruption in the Republic Democratic of Congo (DRC): a case study of the city of Kinshasa. The study sought to establish the extent to which OCEP helps to curb corruption in Kinshasa city. The sample size for questionnaire respondents was 40 ordinary community member from a cross-section of the Kinshasa population respectively to ensure diversity. Respondents were drawn from civil society, key OCEP officials, political analysts, and the civic groups, academic and media. The research design adopted for this study was qualitative research design, because it fitted the type of research being carried out to ensure methodological triangulation for the purposes of enhancing reliability and validity of findings. Questionnaires and interviews were used as research instruments. The documentary review method was used to provide information on how the OCEP can better execute its mandate in the institution in the city of Kinshasa. The study showed that the OCEP as an anti-corruption has its successes and challenges. Relevant comparisons were made with other institutions sharing to common aspect on the fight against corruption. This study recommended that the OCEP should increase public awareness and trust in its implementation through public officials. It is also necessary for the OCEP to implement governance reforms by taking concrete action against all forms of corruption by prosecuting culprits of corruption. The study recommended increase of salaries and development of personnel skills in order to prevent corruption. This research can be built into further research. A comparative analysis of Kinshasa with other similar cities that have been successful in reducing political corruption may lead to more effective solutions for the OCEP policy. Thus, more research is needed into them and brings to the face issues in the public eye that can help government to take action plans to curb corruption. It is hoped that this research will bring about an understanding and appreciation of the OCEP policy as the implementation plan is being executed through the participation of Kinshasa citizens at all levels.