KABUL - A new facility for Afghanistan’s Anti-Corruption Justice Centre (ACJC) opened today in a formal inauguration ceremony attended by government officials and members of the international community, including UNAMA political chief Pernille Kardel.

In July 2016, President Ghani signed a decree establishing the independent ACJC in Kabul to tackle high-level corruption cases. The centre includes specialized police, prosecution units and courts that are designed to be independent from political and other pressures in detecting, investigating and prosecuting corruption.

Established at the national level and unique in Afghanistan, the centre is designed to enable better coordination among judicial institutions to focus more thoroughly on major corruption crimes among high-ranking officials. Its formation follows an international anti-corruption conference in May 2016, where President Ghani described corruption in Afghanistan as a national shame and promised to end the impunity of those involved in corruption.

Along with international partners, the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) worked closely with the Afghan Government to develop the centre concept and provide technical assistance in its formation.

UNAMA is mandated to support the Afghan Government and the people of Afghanistan as a political mission that provides 'good offices' among other key services. 'Good offices' are diplomatic steps UN takes publicly and in private, drawing on its independence, impartiality and integrity, to prevent international disputes from arising, escalating or spreading.

UNAMA also promotes coherent development support by the international community; assists the process of peace and reconciliation; monitors and promotes human rights and the protection of civilians in armed conflict; promotes good governance; and encourages regional cooperation.