By Christian.conteh@awokonewspaper.sl
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE- An audit of the Office of the Vice President for the 2023 fiscal year has uncovered irregularities in payroll and asset management practices, according to a report by the Auditor General.
Payroll Discrepancies- The review of payroll vouchers and staff lists revealed that salaries totaling NLe55,424 were paid to three individuals whose names were not included in the Office of the Secretary to the Vice President’s (OSVP) approved staff list. These names appeared on the payroll from the Accountant General’s Department but lacked verification within the OSVP’s records.
The audit recommended that the Assistant Director of Human Resources ensures these individuals present themselves, along with their employment documents, for verification. If they fail to comply, their names should be removed from the payroll, and the funds already paid to them should be recovered.
Asset Management Lapses- The audit also flagged significant gaps in asset management. Assets worth NLe312,160, procured during 2023, were not recorded in the OSVP’s fixed assets register. Additionally, two affiliated units—the Public Private Partnership Unit (PPPU) and the Sierra Leone Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (SLEITI)—were found to have no fixed asset registers at all.
The Auditor General recommended that all asset registers be updated to include detailed records of procured assets. Furthermore, these assets should be tagged with unique identification marks to enhance accountability and prevent mismanagement.
Call for Improved Oversight- These findings highlight the need for stricter oversight and adherence to proper administrative practices within the Office of the Vice President and its affiliated units. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of public resources. CC/20/12/2024
