This study examines fiscal transparency and accountability as essential tools for reducing corruption in public finance. It is motivated by the persistent challenges of corruption in public financial management systems, particularly in developing economies where weak oversight structures and limited access to financial information continue to undermine effective governance. The paper conceptualizes fiscal transparency as the openness and accessibility of government financial information, while fiscal accountability refers to the obligation of public officials to justify and take responsibility for the use of public resources.

The study further explores how corruption in public finance manifests through practices such as embezzlement, misappropriation, inflated contracts, and weak budget implementation. It argues that the absence of transparency and accountability creates an enabling environment for these corrupt practices to thrive. Using relevant theoretical perspectives such as the Principal–Agent Theory, Public Choice Theory, and Good Governance Theory, the study establishes that corruption is largely a product of information asymmetry, weak institutional controls, and poor enforcement mechanisms.

Findings from the discussion highlight that fiscal transparency reduces corruption by improving access to financial information, enhancing citizen participation, and strengthening monitoring systems, while accountability ensures that violations of financial rules attract appropriate sanctions. However, challenges such as weak institutional capacity, political interference, poor enforcement of laws, and limited technological infrastructure continue to hinder effective implementation of these mechanisms.

The study concludes that strengthening fiscal transparency and accountability is critical for improving public financial management and reducing corruption. It recommends legal reforms, digitalization of financial systems, capacity building for public officials, and increased civic engagement as key strategies for enhancing governance outcomes and promoting efficient use of public resources.

Keywords: fiscal transparency, public accountability, corruption control, public financial management, good governance.