LEADERS CODE OF CONDUCT ACT 2016

This Act may be cited as the Leaders Code of Conduct Act 2016.

Policy

The Maneaba ni Maungatabu declares and recognises the right of the people of Kiribati to a responsible and ethical government and the obligation of the government to take every step reasonable and necessary to conduct government in accordance with the Constitution and the Laws of Kiribati.

The essence of holding public office is the duty of trust which is attached to the office. Public Office Holders, as Leaders, have the duty to uphold the dignity and independence of their offices, to discharge their duties with a strong sense of commitment to the public interest and to steer clear of decisions that are motivated by self-interest.

Definitions

Custom means a tradition, practice or usage that is generally accepted as morally binding within the community.

Financial gain means making a profit or avoiding or reducing a loss.

Gift means the transfer of something of value without recompense and as a gesture of friendship.

Government agency includes Ministries, Government Departments and all State Owned Enterprises.

Immediate family includes parents, grandparents, spouse, children, grandchildren, brothers and sisters.

Interest in a matter means a person owns directly or indirectly property or assets of any kind related to the matter or has a beneficial interest of any kind in that matter.

Leader includes a person who currently holds any of the following positions:
1. Te Beretitenti
2. Kauoman ni Beretitenti
3. Minister
4. Speaker, Clerk of the Maneaba ni Maungatabu
5. Member of the Maneaba ni Maungatabu
6. Attorney General, Solicitor General, Director of Public Prosecution
7. Chief Justice, Judge, Magistrate, Registrar of Court

Violation of this Code means any conduct that infringes any of the provisions of this Code.