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AMBASSADOR ROGER F. NORIEGA, CHAIRMAN OF THE PERMANENT COUNCIL
SPECIAL SESSION OF THE PERMANENT COUNCIL TO CONSIDER SUPPORT FOR INICIATIVES BY NICARAGUA TO SAFEGUARD REPRESENTATIVE DEMOCRACY AND THE RULE OF LAW

September 25, 2002 - Washington, DC


By approving by consensus this resolution, the member states of the OAS have taken another important step in encouraging democracy in the Hemisphere. Guided by Article 4 of the Inter-American Democratic Charter, which reaffirms that government transparency, probity, and responsible public administration are essential components in the exercise of democracy, this resolution expresses firm support for the Government of the Republic of Nicaragua in its struggle against corruption.

Nicaragua unfortunately is not unique in this regard. All of the nations of the Hemisphere have to one degree or another been challenged by the corrosive effects of unethical practices and corruption. For good reason, therefore, the Inter-American Convention Against Corruption coordinates our common efforts against this scourge on a regional basis. The member nations of the OAS are concerned about corruption and determined to respond to it – whether in the Republic of Nicaragua or anywhere else.

The Permanent Mission of Nicaragua deserves our respect for calling on the OAS for support and we have responded with solidarity. That is because the people of Nicaragua, like citizens anywhere in our Hemisphere, have a right to demand good governance and respect for the rule of law. Our message to them is simple: the OAS, and the Inter-American Democratic Charter, are on their side.