A recent parliamentary hearing revealed significant discrepancies in the financial management practices of several government ministries, following the release of the Auditor General’s Report.
The report disclosed that various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) collectively spent thirty-three million, four thousand, seven hundred and thirty Leones and seventy-six cents (33,004,730.76) without proper supporting documents, such as vouchers and receipts.
The Ministries of Energy, Defense, and Health and Sanitation were among those highlighted in the report. This lack of documentation has raised serious concerns about accountability and adherence to the financial regulations outlined in the Public Financial Management Act of 2016.
Deputy Speaker Ibrahim Tawa Conteh expressed deep concern over the findings, emphasizing the challenges posed by the absence of supporting documents. “Without the original records and documentation, the purpose for which the expenditure was incurred could not be ascertained,” he stated, stressing the critical need for transparency in handling public funds.
The report’s findings have prompted calls for stricter oversight and enforcement of financial management practices within government entities. Parliament plans to take concrete steps to hold MDAs accountable for their financial practices, ensuring compliance with established transparency standards.
Deputy Speaker Conteh underscored the importance of maintaining proper records to validate expenditures and prevent the misallocation of funds in future audits.