Corruption is a serious issue that hampers development and stability in many countries, including Myanmar. To effectively combat corruption, the independence of Anti-Corruption Agencies (ACAs) is essential. The principles outlined in the Jakarta Statement emphasize the importance of such independence for the effectiveness of ACAs. This article discusses the corruption situation in Myanmar, its impacts, and recommendations to strengthen ACA independence in line with the Jakarta Statement. The case of Lieutenant General Soe Htut serves as evidence that bribery and abuse of power remain rampant among high-ranking officials. Weak law enforcement, along with political and military interference, exacerbates this situation, making corruption a major threat to national stability and public welfare.
Corruption is a deeply rooted systemic problem in Myanmar, particularly among senior military and government officials. One of the most notable recent cases is the arrest and dismissal of Lieutenant General Soe Htut in November 2023 on charges of bribery and corruption. Soe Htut, a former Minister of Home Affairs and a member of the State Administration Council of the military junta, was sentenced to five years in prison for corruption, abuse of power, and bribery. This case reflects the legal and political uncertainty in Myanmar, as well as the imbalance of power within its governance.
Lieutenant General Soe Htut was a highly influential military figure in Myanmar who held strategic positions within the junta-led government. However, he became entangled in a corruption scandal after it was revealed that he had instructed his subordinates to illegally issue passports and accepted bribes related to welfare funds within the Ministry of Home Affairs. A rare verdict in the highly opaque and militarized Myanmar judicial system, the military court sentenced him to five years in prison.
Corruption in Myanmar has far-reaching impacts on governance, society, and the economy:
- Governance: The inability of law enforcement to address high-profile corruption cases indicates a weak legal system. Military interference across various institutions worsens the situation and erodes public trust in the government.
- Society: Corruption directly undermines public services, increases social inequality, and deteriorates human rights conditions. Civilians often fall victim to a corrupt system without adequate legal protection.
- Economy: The instability caused by corruption negatively affects foreign investment and economic growth. Investors are reluctant to operate in a high-risk, non-transparent environment.
The lack of transparency in handling major corruption cases such as Soe Htut’s highlights the ineffectiveness of Myanmar’s legal system in prosecuting officials who abuse power. Legal reform must be prioritized, particularly by revising laws to ensure that high-ranking officials can be prosecuted fairly and transparently without military or political interference. An independent legal process is a cornerstone of justice and accountability.
In addition, increasing transparency is essential through mandatory, periodic asset declarations by all state officials and by strengthening public audit mechanisms. This is crucial to prevent bribery, collusion, and nepotism, which have long been common practices within Myanmar’s corrupt bureaucracy. Transparency, supported by strong oversight systems, will narrow the space for corruption in government.
Strengthening law enforcement is another key element in the anti-corruption strategy. Law enforcement agencies must be equipped with professional training and adequate resources to carry out investigations and prosecutions effectively and independently. Professional law enforcement will help rebuild public confidence in the judiciary.
Myanmar must also seek international collaboration, both with ASEAN member states and global anti-corruption organizations. Through such partnerships, Myanmar can receive technical assistance, share best practices, and build institutional capacity to tackle the complex challenges of corruption.
The case of Lieutenant General Soe Htut is a clear example of how corruption remains a major threat to Myanmar’s stability and the well-being of its people. Without serious reforms, law enforcement will continue to face obstacles in handling major corruption cases. By strengthening the legal system, enhancing transparency, and involving civil society, Myanmar can move toward a more transparent and accountable government, ultimately creating a better future for its people. Legal reform and robust law enforcement are the keys to ensuring a more effective fight against corruption in Myanmar.
Sources:
Ashadi, W. (2021). Kudeta Junta Militer Myanmar terhadap Aung San Suu Kyi 2021. Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta. Retrieved from [https://www.academia.edu/download/91458145/10035.pdf](https://www.academia.edu/download/91458145/10035.pdf)
Kompas TV. (2023, November 9). Seorang jenderal bintang tiga Myanmar dipecat dan kena 5 tahun penjara atas kasus suap dan korupsi. Retrieved from (https://www.kompas.tv/internasional/460033/seorang-jenderal-bintang-tiga-myanmar-dipecat-dan-kena-5-tahun-penjara-atas-kasus-suap-dan-korupsi)
