Lack of accountability behind many global, national problems, says Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has argued that many global and national problems are due to a lack of accountability, according to reports from the Khazanah Megatrends Forum 2026. Anwar pointed out that discussions on governance often fail to emphasize the importance of accountability. Despite its critical role in tackling issues like unfair trade, unilateral tariffs, wars, and injustices, democratic accountability receives insufficient attention.

Anwar emphasized that there have been ample studies acknowledging the inadequate focus on democratic accountability in both global and national governance matters.

He highlighted a fundamental challenge: how to manage governance when powerful individuals and institutions operate without adequate checks. Anwar invoked the Latin phrase "Quis custodiet ipsos custodes?" (Who watches the watchers?) to illustrate the shortcomings of modern societies, including democracies, in ensuring full accountability from those in power. Anwar stressed that accountability must extend beyond mere elections and the ballot box, stressing the need for genuine accountability in practice.