November 6: To strengthen asset declaration procedures and appropriate sanctions, a consultative meeting on asset declaration was held in Thimphu, yesterday. The day long meeting was organized by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).

Participants pointed out that there is a need for stronger monitoring and implementation. They said apart from that there is a need to create awareness among the public on asset declaration.

More than 45 asset declaration administrators from different ministries, agencies and organizations attended consultation workshop.

The head of the Preventive Division of the Anti-Corruption Commission Karma Thinley said most of the people are unaware of asset declaration. He said the response from last year’s asset declaration exercise was very poor.

This he said is due to lack of awareness among the people about asset declaration.

He cited weak monitoring and law enforcement system as another reason. Participants discussed the purpose of asset declaration, verification of declarations and challenges of enforcement.

The meeting also saw the discussion of sanctions of breach and enhancement of capacity.