By Jariatu S Bangura
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC), chaired by Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, has instructed the Accountant General to recover excess PAYE deductions totaling Le198,383.86 by the end of January 2025 and present evidence of recovery to the committee.
The PAC also mandated efficient management of imprest accounts and directed the retrieval of funds into the Consolidated Revenue Fund, emphasizing strict adherence to public financial management practices.
During the hearing, the Accountant General explained that their payroll system differs from that of employers but assured the committee they would collaborate with the Audit Service to obtain a detailed list of affected staff and recover the excess deductions as instructed.
The PAC underscored the importance of compliance with Regulation 114 of the Public Financial Management Regulations, reminding the Accountant General of their sole responsibility for account reconciliation.
The committee further resolved that no payments should be authorized by the Accountant General for imprest or donor-funded accounts unless they meet the required threshold of supporting documentation, as outlined in the Public Financial Management Regulations. Such payments must also be certified by internal auditors to ensure transparency and accountability.
These directives come as part of PAC’s efforts to strengthen financial discipline and safeguard public resources, reinforcing the principles of accountability and effective governance.
