Audit Service Empowers Public Accounts Committee Members

The Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL) organised a one –day workshop for members of the Public Accounts Committee in Parliament in an effort to help understand the audit process and the audit report. The workshop was held on Wednesday 5^th June 2024 at the 3^rd Floor of the FCC Building in Freetown.

In his opening remarks, the Acting Auditor-General, Mr. Abdul Aziz pointed out that the idea of organising the workshop for members of the PAC is a continuous effort among several engagements to cement the already existing cordial relationship between the two institutions. He said the engagement is to further prepare members of the PAC in Parliament to hold public officials accountable for the effective implementation of recommendations in the Auditor-General’s Report. He emphasised the importance of the Public Accounts Committee in Parliament in ensuring public accountability to impact the lives of Sierra Leoneans

The Ag Auditor-General called for continuous collaboration in the accountability sector for the timely and efficient service delivery in the country. He noted that the Audit Service does not only undertake financial audits, which only give a fair view on the accounts, but also embarks on compliance and performance audits to ensure effective service delivery to impact the lives of the people.

Morie Lansana, Assistant Auditor General in the Western Area provided an overview of the role of supreme audit institutions in and out of Sierra Leone. He also explained highlights of issues in the 2022 Auditor-General’s Report. Mr. Lansana also proposed insights for the continuing symbiotic relationship between the PAC and the ASSL in holding public official accountable in the implementation of recommendation in the AG’s Report.

Aiah Gbondo Tugbawa, Deputy Auditor General Public Enterprises explained the audit process and defined the various audits undertaken by the Audit Service.

Members of the Public Accounts Committee commended the ASSL for the good job done over the years to ensure public accountability in Sierra Leone. They made firm commitment to hold public officials accountable for the effective implementation of audit recommendations.

Honourable Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, Deputy Speaker of Parliament who doubles as Chairman of the Public Account Committee in Parliament noted that the Auditor General’s Report is not a political document. He said appointment in good faith by the President does not imply that those who hold public offices should not be held accountable for their stewardship. He called on members of the Committee to collaborate and put political differences aside in holding public officials accountable.