By Mackie M. Jalloh
In an era where financial transparency and accountability are pivotal to governance, Sierra Leone’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has emerged as a critical player under the leadership of Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh. On August 20, 2024, Conteh reaffirmed the committee’s unwavering commitment to recovering state funds, setting an ambitious target of SLE 100 billion by the conclusion of its ongoing hearings.
Unlike traditional approaches that prioritize scrutinizing documentation, the PAC under Hon Conteh’s chairmanship is taking a more aggressive stance. Since its reconstitution in June 2024, the committee has already clawed back SLE 50 billion, a remarkable feat in such a short period. This aggressive approach marks a significant shift in the modus operandi of the PAC, signalling a no-nonsense attitude towards financial accountability in the country.
Hon Conteh made it clear that the PAC’s primary objective is not merely to peruse documents but to recover funds that rightfully belong to the state. “Our focus is not on scrutinizing paperwork but on retrieving what is owed to the people of Sierra Leone,” he declared during the session. This statement underscores a broader commitment to ensuring that every Leone lost or misappropriated is returned to the national coffers.
The PAC’s strategy is not just about recovering funds; it is also about sending a powerful message to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), and private entities that lax financial practices will not be tolerated. Conteh urged these bodies to ensure meticulous and accurate documentation before appearing before the committee, warning that any discrepancies could lead to serious consequences.
This approach by the PAC reflects the administration’s broader agenda under President Julius Maada Bio, which has consistently emphasized transparency and accountability as cornerstones of governance. While the committee itself does not retain any of the funds it recovers, its contribution to the Consolidated Fund is invaluable, especially in a country where every Leone counts towards national development.
Hon Conteh’s leadership of the PAC is particularly noteworthy given the committee’s reputation for being thorough yet fair in its proceedings. However, under his chairmanship, the PAC is taking things a step further by ensuring that no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of financial justice. This level of dedication is rare in the region, setting a precedent that could influence other countries grappling with issues of corruption and financial mismanagement.
The committee’s efforts are also a direct challenge to those who have previously taken advantage of weak oversight mechanisms. By targeting such a substantial amount—SLE100 billion—Hon Conteh and his team are demonstrating that the PAC is not only capable of enforcing financial accountability but is also committed to ensuring that Sierra Leone’s resources are used for the benefit of its citizens.
In a country where public trust in institutions is often fragile, the PAC’s assertive approach is likely to bolster confidence in the government’s ability to manage public resources effectively. The ongoing hearings, which have already yielded significant results, are expected to continue with the same vigour, making it clear that financial malpractice will not go unchecked.
As the PAC inches closer to its target, the message is clear: under President Bio’s administration, there will be no compromise on financial accountability. The SLE 100 billion target is not just a financial goal; it represents a broader commitment to the principles of good governance and the protection of public resources.
Hon. Conteh’s resolve to meet this target by the end of the PAC’s current hearings is a testament to the committee’s dedication to its national duty. In an environment where every Leone recovered contributes directly to the welfare of the nation, the PAC’s work stands as a beacon of hope for a more financially accountable Sierra Leone.
