Parliamentary Oversight Committee Probes Councils Across Sierra Leone

By Abdul Rahman Bah

The Parliamentary Oversight Committee has been actively probing various councils across Sierra Leone, recently concluding an investigation at the Bo City Council. This follows earlier probes in other districts, aimed at ensuring accountability and proper execution of government programs and projects.

Chairman Hon. Musa Fofana emphasized that the oversight tour is a constitutional mandate to maintain checks and balances on Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Opposition Whip Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara assured that the probe would be fair and urged cooperation from all witnesses.

Key findings from the investigations include:

New Port Loko City Council: The Committee noted a lack of projects, slow revenue generation, and inadequate tax compliance by mining companies. Only a European Union-funded project amounting to Le1.2 billion had been implemented.
Kono District Council: The council received funding from mining companies and the government, with ongoing road projects supported by NaCSA and RMFA. However, local and property taxes were being collected by Chiefdom Administrations, which is unusual.
Makeni City Council: Devolved sectors were found to be using more government funds for administration rather than service delivery. The council faced delays in budget transfers for project implementation.
Bonthe District Council: Despite having 57 revenue sources, heavy reliance on non-compliant mining companies was noted. Property tax rates were minimal, and projects were deemed insufficient except for support to NPSE pupils.
Moyamba District Council: The council’s manual cadastral system was inaccurate, and there was a conflict with Chiefdom Administrations over tax collection. Lack of manpower and mobility hindered effective operations.
Kailahun District Council: There was no income reported for 2024, and Chiefs were collecting market daily dues. The council showed inconsistencies in revenue collection and a lackadaisical approach.
Bo District Council: The property tax system was outdated, and there were plans for a general assessment. The council received 40% shared taxes from some Chiefdoms and was advised to change their revenue generation dynamics.

The Committee commended the Bo City Council for their efforts but raised concerns over waste management and encouraged them to diversify revenue mobilization.

These findings and recommendations aim to improve accountability and ensure that councils effectively manage resources for the development of their respective regions.