The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has urged candidates and voters to refrain from bribery ahead of the upcoming Local Council and Women’s Development Committee (WDC) elections.

In a statement issued on Monday, the ACC called on all parties involved in the elections to uphold the fundamental principles of democracy and to avoid any form of bribery or undue influence. The commission said an increase in bribery-related practices undermines public trust in state institutions and agencies.

The ACC emphasised that integrity must be promoted throughout the electoral process, warning that corrupt practices are harmful not only to the democratic system but also to society as a whole.

The commission noted that the true power and benefits of decentralisation depend on the choices made by voters in local council elections. It said the purpose of these elections is to elect capable and responsible individuals who can make decisions on behalf of the public and take responsibility for the development of their constituencies and islands.

Urging voters to consider the long-term future of the country, the ACC called on the public to take personal responsibility in preventing corruption. The commission warned that candidates who attempt to secure office by buying votes through bribery are depriving citizens of their rightful power and acting in their own self-interest.

Such actions, the ACC said, amount to a betrayal of oneself, one’s family and society. The commission reiterated that bribery is a criminal offence under the law and urged all parties to refrain from engaging in such practices.

The ACC also called on the public to report any suspected cases of bribery or corruption to the commission, stressing the importance of public cooperation in ensuring free, fair and transparent elections.