The African-Arab League Against Corruption and Bribery has expressed its interest in the ongoing investigations, arrests, and interrogations in Mauritania. The investigations involve several bloggers suspected of extortion, and concerns over sources of funding and its use. The League reaffirms its commitment to fighting corruption, promoting transparency, and upholding the rule of law. It supports efforts to combat corruption and bribery, regardless of the individuals or institutions involved.
The League emphasizes the importance of tracking suspicious funding sources, verifying their nature, and uncovering any illegal practices. It stresses that all actions must be based on clear evidence and conducted under the supervision of competent judicial authorities, while respecting legal guarantees. The League also highlights that combating corruption should not compromise fundamental rights and freedoms, including the presumption of innocence and the protection of detainees' dignity.
The League calls for a clear distinction between freedom of expression and legitimate criticism, which are guaranteed by law, and practices that constitute crimes, such as extortion and exploitation of influence for personal gain. It expresses confidence in the importance of resorting to competent institutions and calls for professional, impartial, and independent investigations, free from personal or political considerations.
The League recommends that the scope of anti-corruption efforts be expanded to include all sources and manifestations of corruption, both within and outside state institutions, without exception or selectivity. It also advocates for the strict and fair application of the law, while protecting the rights of all individuals under investigation. Furthermore, the League suggests promoting transparency and informing the public about reliable information allowed by legal procedures.
According to the League, the true measure of the success of anti-corruption efforts lies not in the number of arrests or media coverage but in revealing the truth, determining responsibilities according to the law, and restoring justice to those affected. The League reiterates its stance that fighting corruption is a national responsibility that does not tolerate selectivity and that the rule of law requires no one to be above accountability.
The League's statement comes as investigations continue in Mauritania, where several individuals have been detained and questioned over allegations of corruption and extortion. The League's call for respect for the rule of law and human rights is seen as a significant development in the country's efforts to tackle corruption. The statement was issued by the League's president, Mahmoudi Saybout, on October 2, 2026.
The African-Arab League Against Corruption and Bribery has set out key recommendations for Mauritania, including the need for continued, professional, and impartial investigations, and the importance of expanding anti-corruption efforts to include all sources and manifestations of corruption.
Key points
- The African-Arab League Against Corruption and Bribery has called for respect for the rule of law and human rights in Mauritania's ongoing investigations.
- The League supports efforts to combat corruption and bribery, regardless of the individuals or institutions involved.
- The League recommends promoting transparency and informing the public about reliable information allowed by legal procedures.
