President Mirziyoyev criticizes Anti-corruption Agency for ineffectiveness

He pointed out that the agency’s leadership has failed to address corruption in high-risk areas such as healthcare, employment offices, and banks, neglecting to examine the situation firsthand or propose modern solutions. Additionally, he criticized the heads of these sectors for their weak efforts in making their systems “corruption-free.”

After the President ordered increased oversight of investment programs, 3 trillion UZS were saved last year alone. Additionally, in the healthcare sector, the launch of a “Situation Center” prevented 1.2 trillion UZS in unnecessary expenditures in 2024.

“But why should these efforts only begin after a presidential directive?” the head of state questioned.

It was also noted that parliamentary budget committees lack initiative in identifying and addressing corruption risks in the three ministries that receive the most budget funds.

The Prime Minister was instructed to dismiss the heads of “internal anti-corruption control” structures in 117 ministries and agencies and replace them with honest, dedicated, and professional personnel, assigning them clear tasks.

Ministries' regional compliance officers will now be directly appointed by ministers, who will bear political responsibility and be personally accountable for corruption within their systems.

The agency's working methods will be completely reformed. As a pilot project, compliance control of five institutions — the Ministries of Health, Construction, and Water Resources, as well as Uzbekneftgaz and Uzsuvtaminot — will be transferred to the Anti-Corruption Agency.

At the end of the year, these ministries will report to the National Council on how many corruption risks have been eliminated and what improvements have been made for the people.

Additionally, every quarter, the agency, along with ministers and governors, will visit at least three sectors with high corruption levels down to the district level. They will thoroughly analyze systemic and everyday corruption factors and develop specific measures to digitize processes or eliminate bureaucratic procedures.

Within two months, a “roadmap” will be developed based on recommendations from international rating organizations, outlining specific actions for each ministry and agency. Proposals will also be made to penalize leaders who demonstrate inefficiency.