Why isn't British 'sleaze' called what it really is? Corruption and the post-colonial state: how the west invented African corruption. Looters and Grabbers: 54 Years of Corruption and Plunder by the Elite 1963-2017. Amplitude North Star Template Library.

Why isn't British 'sleaze' called what it really is? Corruption and the post-colonial state: how the west invented African corruption. Looters and Grabbers: 54 Years of Corruption and Plunder by the Elite 1963-2017. Amplitude North Star Template Library.

Corruption is a global issue that affects countries around the world, yet the way it is portrayed and discussed varies greatly depending on the context and the individuals involved. One striking example of this is the difference in how corruption is labeled and addressed in different countries. In the case of British 'sleaze,' there seems to be a reluctance to call it what it really is – corruption.

Recent revelations have shown that despite the huge conflicts of interest, a third of Members of Parliament (MPs) in the UK have pocketed nearly $7 million in payments for moonlighting with private firms, some of which were bidding for contracts related to pandemic measures. This blatant abuse of power and position highlights the extent to which corruption has permeated the British political landscape. However, instead of addressing it head-on and labeling it as corruption, the term 'sleaze' is often used, downplaying the seriousness of the issue.

This disparity in language and perception is not unique to the UK. In many African countries, corruption is also a prevalent problem. However, the way it is described in media often presents it as a form of pathology, associating it with disease and epidemics. This portrayal perpetuates stereotypes and reinforces the notion that corruption is inherent to African societies. Gabriel Apata, a racism scholar, argues that no other continent is corruption described in these terms, further highlighting the Western bias in framing the issue.

Joe Khamisi, in his book 'Looters and Grabbers: 54 Years of Corruption and Plunder by the Elite 1963-2017,' delves into the role of colonialism in establishing corruption practices in African countries. He argues that corruption is not solely a post-colonial phenomenon but has deep roots in the pre-colonial past. The notion of giving gifts to chiefs, for example, was a colonial invention, yet it has been wrongly attributed to an 'African tradition.' This misrepresentation further perpetuates the idea that corruption is inherent to African societies, ignoring the systemic factors that contribute to it.

The Pandora Papers, a recent leak of financial documents, shed light on the extent of corruption and money laundering happening globally. Interestingly, while public officials stealing money from African countries are quickly labeled as corrupt, the Western consultants, firms, and institutions aiding in hiding the stolen money in tax havens are not held to the same standard. This double standard reinforces the power dynamics between Western countries and their former colonies, perpetuating a narrative that corruption is an inherent problem in the Global South.

To address corruption effectively, it is crucial to recognize the biases and power dynamics that shape the discourse around it. Here are three actionable pieces of advice for tackling corruption:

1. Call it what it is: It is important to use accurate and clear language when discussing corruption. Avoid downplaying or using euphemisms that diminish its severity. By calling corruption by its name, we can create a more honest and transparent conversation around the issue.

2. Address systemic factors: Corruption is not solely an individual's moral failing but often a result of systemic factors such as weak governance, lack of transparency, and unequal power dynamics. To combat corruption effectively, it is necessary to address these underlying issues and implement structural reforms.

3. Hold all accountable: Corruption should not be treated as a problem exclusive to certain regions or countries. It is a global issue that requires a collective effort to combat. Holding all individuals, regardless of their nationality or position, accountable for their corrupt practices is essential for creating a fair and just society.

In conclusion, the way corruption is labeled and addressed varies depending on the context and the individuals involved. The case of British 'sleaze' highlights the reluctance to call corruption by its name, while African corruption is often portrayed as a pathology inherent to the continent. Recognizing these biases and power dynamics is crucial for addressing corruption effectively. By using accurate language, addressing systemic factors, and holding all accountable, we can work towards a more transparent and just society.