[Opinion] Anticorruption Committee and Ju Rongji

`A cross-check system will be introduced to curb corruptions involving high-ranking officials and their familie.` Having heard the blueprint set by the anticorruption committee, people are now raising expectations for the future of the country. Now that the committee pledges before the president that it would exert its best effort to root out corruptions on the higher level, it must work hard to deliver on its promise. The committee has even set the deadline for its ambitious campaign. People will no doubt keep a close eye on how the committee will take on rampant corruptions.

When it comes to corruption, we have a reason to feel ashamed. In fact, this country ranked 40th last year on the corruption perception index (CPI) released by non-profit international organization Transparency International, or TI. It won 4.0 points out of 10, recording the lowest among members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. It ranked 4th following Russia, China, and Taiwan when it comes to offering bribes during the course of international trade.

Rooting out corruption is a daunting challenge that requires a long-term approach. ˝Only a country that continues working to root out corruption will remain transparent,˝ said Peter Igen, chairman of TI. Soon after former president Kim took office, an anticorruption committee was launch. With two sons of the former president sent to jail for bribery taking, however, it was obvious that the agency was incapable of carrying out its duty. This is why people are raising concern over the speculation about alleged influence-peddling by President Roh`s elder brother and associates.

The committee has set its goal of raising the country`s ranking on TI up to 20th by 2007. This, however, is a step backward from the earlier goal set last year. The committee said last year that it aimed to raise the rank to 20th by 2005. What it takes is a strong will to carry out. Remember what Chinese Prime Minister Ju Rongji said while he was leading the anticorruption campaign. ˝Prepare 100 coffins. Give 99 to corrupt officials and leave the last one for me. I will rather go to hell with those corrupted for the future of my country.˝ Having working hard to root out corruption, indeed, he stepped down honorably last month amid a big applause.

Bang Hyung-nam, Editorial Writer, hnbhang@donga.com