Ethics and Anti‑Corruption in a Stranded Democracy — Sierra Leone Case Study. A Policy Briefing
Ethics and Anti‑Corruption in a Stranded Democracy — Sierra Leone Case Study. A Policy Briefing. By Israel Ojekeh Parper Snr 09/09/2026 INTRODUCTION A stranded democracy is one where democratic institutions exist in form but not in full function. Elections occur, commissions operate, and constitutional language promises accountability — yet capacity, independence, and legitimacy are compromised. Ethics and anti‑corruption efforts in such environments require more than institutional design; they require philosophical grounding. 1. Conceptual Frame . A stranded democracy is characterised by functioning electoral and constitutional structures but weakened institutional independence, politicised oversight, and inconsistent accountability. 2. Theoretical Anchors: Kant (Duty Ethics) : Patronage systems undermine duty‑based leadership. Arendt (Banality of Corruption): Routine administrative shortcuts normalise corruption. Rawls (Justice as Fairness): Selective enforcement e...