HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE WEB CHAT WITH DAN WITHMAN

UNCLAS BANGUI 000166

SIPDIS

STATE FOR AF/C, AF/PD/PA AND AF/EX
PARIS FOR ARS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: OEXC OIIP SCUL CT
SUBJECT: HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE WEB CHAT WITH DAN WITHMAN


1. (U) Post invited six journalists and editors from local
newspapers to participate in the web chat dialogue with Dan
Whitman on ``Corruption in Africa'' at its Cultural Center
Auditorium. Ambassador Cook later joined the group for a
one-hour discussion on the detrimental impact of corruption on
the Central African Republic's (CAR) development.


2. (U) The program was very instructive for the journalists and
motivated them vis a vis their role in promoting transparency
and making government actors accountable to their constituents.
The Ambassador emphasized the relevance of the web chat's
anticorruption message in a country that, despite its rich
natural resources, is embroiled in internal conflicts that
derail the country's development. He invited the press to be
more involve in the sensitization of the population towards
corruption and to encourage the people to be more responsible
for their development. The journalists were impressed with the
Ambassador's frank remarks and recommended that forums of this
type be organized more often and involve officials and members
of civil society.


3. (U) Impact: Very positive. The web chat and following
discussion reinforced President Obama's historic speech and gave
Post an opportunity to advance US policy in the CAR.

COOK