Abstract

Whistleblowing is one of the tools that is encouraged to deter corruption and other fraudulent activities at workplaces. However, we cannot expect workers to engage in whistleblowing if the consequences are detrimental to themselves or others. It was against this background that a study was conducted with the aim of understanding the perceptions that public officers have towards whistleblowing as a tool to fight corruption. Through quantitative research methods the study was designed to answer three research questions: To what extent is whistleblowing perceived as important. What perceptions do public servants have on the support regarding whistleblowing. And What situational factors affect the likelihood of whistleblowing on corruption among public servants? Utilizing the theory of planned behavior and the normative ethical theories, the study investigated public officers’ perceptions towards whistleblowing. Using a structured questionnaire, a sample of 383 public officers from Lilongwe and Blantyre districts data was collected and analysed. SPSS software was used for analysis. Results from the study suggests that the majority of public officers view whistleblowing positively as a valuable tool to fight corruption, however their decision to blow the whistle or to remain silent is influenced by both personal and situational factors. The study established that the respondents perceives that the laws on protection of whistleblower as inadequate; they have negative perceptions and fear court testimonies; they have high regard for confidential and anonymous whistleblowing. Hence, recommendation that policies on corruption should focus on whistleblowers.

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School	: School of Law, Economics and Government
Issued Date	: 2021

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