By Joseph Momoh, Daily Scope Reporter
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Parliament of Sierra Leone, led by Deputy Speaker Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, has initiated a series of public hearings with local councils in the Eastern Region. The councils involved include the Kenema City Council, Kenema District Council, and Kailahun District Council. These sessions, taking place at the Kenema District Council Hall, are focused on addressing concerns raised in the 2023 Auditor General’s Report.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Conteh emphasized the Committee’s constitutional duty to uphold accountability and transparency in the management of public finances. He underscored several critical issues highlighted in the audit report, such as tax exemptions, mining concessions, consultancy contracts, the malfunctioning Petra financial system, inadequate revenue mobilization, and the failure to remit withholding taxes to the National Revenue Authority (NRA). The Chairman called for enhanced adherence to sound financial management practices within local councils, stressing that robust accountability mechanisms are essential for fostering public trust in local governance.
Mr. Augustine Sesay, Head of the PAC Secretariat and Deputy Director of Committees in Parliament, elaborated on the Committee’s mandate. He referenced constitutional provisions and Standing Orders that empower the PAC to scrutinize audited public accounts, reinforcing its vital role in ensuring that public funds are spent in line with the Auditor General’s recommendations.
Throughout the hearings, the PAC scrutinized various audit observations across the three councils. While some issues were resolved satisfactorily, others necessitated additional clarification or further action from the Audit Service Sierra Leone. The Committee reached several resolutions, including the need to regularize tax exemptions, enhance revenue mobilization efforts, improve the functionality of the Petra system, and ensure the timely payment of withholding taxes.
For further inquiries, please contact Daily Scope Newspaper at dailyscopemedia@gmail.com
