Hon. Aaron Calls for Robust Documentation Practices

By Abdul Rahman Bah

On Thursday, October 24, 2024, at the Parliament administration building, Hon. Aaron, a prominent member of the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) and the Public Accounts Committee, engaged in a crucial discussion with representatives from the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development regarding the 2021 and 2022 Audit Reports. The meeting aimed to address key financial practices and enhance accountability within government agencies.

During the meeting, Hon. Aaron passionately emphasized that agencies responsible for issuing payment orders to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) must ensure that these organizations are thoroughly briefed on all payment details before any transactions occur. He underscored the importance of providing comprehensive information, including precise payment amounts and detailed bank account information. “Transparency in these processes is a vital safeguard against potential financial losses,” he stated, highlighting that informed NGOs can better manage their financial engagements.

Hon. Aaron also stressed the critical need for timely reconciliation, particularly during audit processes. He pointed out that maintaining accurate and thorough documentation—such as payment orders and corresponding receipts from NGOs—is not merely a procedural formality but an essential practice. This meticulous documentation serves as a crucial reference for verifying transactions against bank statements, ensuring that all financial activities are traceable and accountable.

Moreover, he reiterated that management bears a legal responsibility to closely oversee payment processes. He urged that adequate checks and balances be implemented to minimize risks associated with financial disbursements. To bolster these practices, Hon. Aaron proposed that the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development collaborate with the National Revenue Authority (NRA) to access bank statements for verification purposes. He asserted that this partnership would be instrumental in ensuring that payments align with what was originally ordered, thus reinforcing financial integrity.

In his detailed presentation, Hon. Aaron advised agencies to adopt proactive strategies to enhance the accuracy of their payment orders. He proposed establishing a robust reconciliation system to prevent potential financial discrepancies. “Regular and systematic reconciliation practices are vital for upholding financial integrity and accountability,” he noted. Furthermore, effective communication and collaboration with relevant stakeholders, including the NRA, are critical in refining verification processes and ensuring compliance with established legal obligations.

Concluding his address, Hon. Aaron urged management to prioritize their oversight responsibilities diligently. By doing so, they can significantly mitigate the risks associated with financial transactions involving NGOs, ultimately fostering a more transparent and accountable financial environment. His commitment to improving financial oversight reflects a broader goal of enhancing governance and ensuring that public funds are managed responsibly and transparently.