By Jariatu S. Bangura
Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee has launched a formal investigation into the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs over concerns raised in the 2023 Auditor General’s Report regarding lease agreements for state-owned properties, including Bintumani Hotel.
Committee Chair Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh expressed frustration over the ministry’s failure to provide full documentation on lease payments, citing inconsistencies and financial mismanagement.
Businesses under government agreements were found to have made partial or no payments for certain years, with the COVID-19 pandemic cited as a factor affecting compliance.
During a tense parliamentary session, Hon. Conteh ordered an immediate halt to all lease negotiations and agreements until full financial records are submitted.
The committee has summoned tourism ministry officials, hotel representatives, and other stakeholders to verify lease payments from 2015 to date.
Citing the Public Financial Management Act and Section 60 of the Constitution, Hon. Conteh stressed parliament’s authority in ensuring government resources are managed transparently.
He warned that any attempts to withhold information could lead to further scrutiny and legal consequences.
