Opposition MP Donte Hunt has called on Government to introduce anti-corruption legislation this year even if it is doing nothing wrong.

He said allegations of corruption had plagued this Government for a long time with very little done to remedy or address the perception.

In a statement to the The Royal Gazette he said: "Whether there is truth to the claim of corruption within this particular Government or not, is somewhat irrelevant or secondary to a certain extent."

Mr. Hunt's statement was sent to the Premier's Press Secretary Glenn Jones yesterday but no response was forthcoming.

Mr. Hunt said his main concern was that the claims illuminated a sizeable deficiency in controls, checks and balances and accountability applied to Government and the political system in general. "Basically, no government (or individual) should have absolute power."

He said the greatest political power should ultimately be in the hands of the people.

"It is totally unacceptable to excuse or nullify any form of corruption based on the view that Governments of the past have operated in such a manner and did nothing to resolve the issue."

That view did nothing to mature Bermuda but instead kept the Island in perpetual regression and moral decay, said Mr. Hunt.

"It is the mandate of every Government in every new term of service to correct the wrongs of the past, improve on the milestones of yesterday and ultimately drive to make their jurisdiction a better place.

Mr. Hunt said politicians and leaders in general can only effectively lead by first setting the example.

"If we are to secure and protect future generations from the misuse of power and of the public purse we must implement a solid foundation of accountability, control and transparency.

"Therefore, I implore this Government to endeavour to place a priority on the implementation of anti-corruption legislation by the end of 2009."