When dealing with corruption, one is to always keep in mind that the public perception of corruption and what the offence of corruption entails are two different things.

The public view corruption generally speaking as any theft or fraud or bribery within government departments and any conduct of government officials that seems unlawful of self enriching.  The courts do not view corruption in the same way.  

The definition of corruption is specifically contained in Corrupt Activities Act of 2000.  This definition is very wide and it includes receiving or demanding a benefit which is in breach of any rule, code of law.  It covers all spheres of business and a zero tolerance is applied by the courts.  The courts would sentence corrupt government officials quite readily to a jail term even as first offenders.  If private individuals are convicted of corruption, as first offenders, the courts tend to impose heavy fines coupled with a term of imprisonment.  

Any person who pays a government official in order for that person to gain a benefit or to prevent the official performing his duties should realise that such conduct is criminal and punishable in law.

 

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