In recent years, an unprecedented number of anti-corruption investigations have unfolded around the world. At first glance, this is a positive development for society as a whole, but the process is not without risks. Wide-ranging investigations and prosecutions, even successful ones, have backfired in several ways.

In late October, Sierra Leone’s parliament failed to block measures establishing an investigative commission into the activities of the country’s former ruling party. Tackling corruption was a key tenet of new President Julius Maada Bio’s agenda, but the country’s stark political divide makes it a tough task.