The Office of the Acting Speaker of Parliament announced on 19th December 2023 that the long-anticipated Report of the Auditor General for the fiscal year 2022 has been officially presented to Parliament. This significant event aligns with sub-section 4 of section 119 of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone, accompanied by SO 70(5).

As per the constitutional mandate, the Auditor-General is required to submit the annual report to Parliament within twelve months of the preceding financial year. The report is designed to highlight any irregularities detected during the audit and bring attention to matters deemed crucial for parliamentary notice.

In response to this submission, Parliament has promptly referred the report to the Public Accounts Committee for a thorough investigation, public hearings, and the formulation of recommendations based on the findings. A commitment has been made to the general public that Parliament will conclude its investigations within a swift two-month timeframe from the date of this announcement.

Emphasizing the importance and confidentiality of the Auditor General’s Report, Parliament clarified that it is the property of Parliament. Individuals and institutions aspiring to contribute to the accountability process are advised to await the outcome of parliamentary procedures. Violation of this directive is deemed contemptuous.

In a final directive, auditees have been officially notified to be prepared for parliamentary summons with the utmost urgency. This signals the beginning of a meticulous examination of the accounts and practices of various entities, ensuring a comprehensive review of the Auditor General’s findings.

The unfolding parliamentary process aims to reinforce transparency, accountability, and adherence to financial regulations within the public sector. Citizens are urged to stay informed as Parliament diligently progresses through the investigative and deliberative phases, upholding its constitutional duty to scrutinize the Auditor General’s Report and take appropriate actions as needed.