“No well ordered republic ever canceled its citizens’ demerits with their merits…Having rewarded a citizen for performing well, if the selfsame man does evil he must be punished without any regard for his good works. And when these fundamental principles are well enforced, a (nation) lives free for a long time: otherwise it is quickly ruined.”

The state should apply innovative methods and changes, starting with good laws and behaviors of virtuous officials. This would not just be necessary to maintain a good healthy image of the state, but it is also important to restore the people’s confidence, rebuilding credibility, and re-establishing hopefulness or optimism. Machiavelli believes that this should be done at least each ten years. The delay in fighting evident corruption would invite grave degeneration, and the risk on the state itself will be higher that’s why regarding this issue he wrote: 

“Men begin to change their habits and to transgress the laws, and if their memory of punishment is not refreshed, and fear is not renewed in their spirit, soon so many delinquents will be found that they cannot be punished without danger.”

The merciless punishment announced of powerful corrupt figures involved in scandals is the most efficient technique to restore law and people’s trust. Rules and laws applied to crack down those who violate the norms, values and principles of the state would give hope to all people in having their own legitimate rights in a very truthful environment. 

Actually, Machiavelli talks enthusiastically about the execution of corrupt persons in public, so as to send a clear obvious message to all people and get the best outcome of it. Otherwise, the symbolic killing that, in its peak, aims at merely destroying the reputation of the person and will have no effect on the public; causing people to lose hope of ea real positive change. Turning a blind eye to corruption, will make things worse because it will not last much before facing a more serious crisis that will threaten the survival of freedom and liberty. It is important to mention here that the battle against corruption is a continuous one, due to the nature of human beings where corruption takes place. Thus, it will keep arising.