A dozen files of reports of embezzlement linked to Covid funds raised by the state have already been sent to the independent anti-corruption office. The number of them will increase significantly in the coming weeks. A still-confidential study, conducted by a coalition of civil society organizations working on the transparency of the funds allocated to combat the pandemic, lists a whole range of dysfunctions, deficiencies and elements that interfere with their opacity. This study, which RFI could only obtain, was to be published within a few weeks.
as reported from Antananarivo,
First, the report points to a known fact that is still surprising: the abundance of organizations set up to coordinate the fight against the virus (Covid-19 Operational Command Center, the 22 Covid-19 Regional Operational Command Centers, the Loharano Committees from 1428, etc.).
Most of the roles and responsibilities of these entities are still unclear today without any legal or legislative text being drafted. However, the report notes that structures planned for this type of crisis already existed before the epidemic, as did the National Coordination Committee against Major Epidemics.
Then there are those over $ 716 million of allotments and loans allotted of donors to the state to fight the epidemic that raises questions. Today, most Covid-19 expenses are not traceable; For its part, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, which, in accordance with the decree adopted in July, published a monthly report on the details of the use of these funds, has not yet fulfilled this task.
Faced with this most opaque situation, donors continue to allocate funds to the Malagasy state and make disbursements. “We are judged on our ability to pay out,” says one of these major funders. “It simply came to our notice then. These are millions of dollars of small taxpayers in the West who go into the pockets of the country’s corrupt rulers. And everyone closes their eyes. For each company and its own goals. “
In addition, this year the cumulative amount spent on contracts awarded by mutual agreement explodes, compared to the previous three years. “These procedures are legal in this state of emergency,” explains a civil society representative and specialist in these matters. “However, we know very well that this type of procurement promotes nepotism and increases the risk of corruption and collusion.” Civil society had also proposed launching tenders online, simplified with shortened deadlines to respect competition. But this recommendation was not adopted by the power in place.
Drug shortage
The report also emphasizes that the multi-sectoral contingency plan (PMDU) set up by the government has prioritized the economic aspect and in particular the achievement of “Velirano”, these presidential promises hammered by the head of state since his death. campaign in 2018 compared to the health component. Health represents only 9.37% of funding against 35% for infrastructure.
The study also recalls the lack of drugs and protective equipment experienced at the peak, especially for nursing staff, even when equipment donations flowed in. At the same time, the study continues, drugs prescribed to treat Covid and not found in hospitals experienced an extraordinary boom in the black Malagasy market.
Finally, contrary to the provisions of the texts that have been in force since July 2020 (such as the PMDU), all control and anti-corruption bodies (steering committee, advisory committee, joint corruption unit, guard unit, etc.) must ensure proper use of funds has never been introduced.
And next week, a comprehensive study across the country is expected to begin. Transparency International – Initiative Madagascar wants to measure the population’s perception of corruption during this particular pandemic period.
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