The Member for Wabag, Dr. Lino Tom, has delivered a strong rebuke of the government’s handling of a recent defense force controversy, calling for urgent and decisive action to combat corruption at the highest levels.
Speaking at a recent media conference, Dr. Tom acknowledged senior leaders present before addressing what he described as a “defense force fiasco,” an issue he said highlighted deeper governance failures.
While noting that earlier speakers had outlined details of the incident, he focused on what it reveals about the government’s broader approach.
Dr. Tom criticized the use of commissions of inquiry, describing them as ineffective and performative measures that fail to deliver real accountability.
He argued that corruption remains widespread and is being inadequately addressed by national leadership.
“If the prime minister is truly concerned about the plight of this nation, he must address corruption,” Dr. Tom said, warning that it represents the country’s “biggest existential crisis.”
He also raised concerns about the treatment of defense force personnel believed to have exposed wrongdoing, urging the government to protect whistleblowers rather than threaten them for procedural breaches.
Dr. Tom argued that the country’s development is being undermined by entrenched corruption, dismissing reliance on foreign models, or external solutions.
“The answers are not in the U.S., not in Europe, not in Australia,” he said, insisting reform must come from within.
Using a metaphor, he compared the nation to a leaking ship, stating that increasing funding alone would not resolve systemic issues.
“There are holes created by corruption. We have to plug those holes,” he said, calling for reforms to begin within parliament and the cabinet.
The Wabag MP also questioned the leadership of the prime minister, noting his years in office and contrasting them with what he described as more decisive reforms under a previous administration. He accused the government of protecting corrupt ministers and prioritizing political survival over national interest.
Dr. Tom further called for immediate and visible action against corruption, including holding senior officials accountable.
“The only way this country will progress, is if we address corruption.”
