By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a session held on Monday, January 29, 2024, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) appeared before the Parliamentary Accounts Committee to address issues arising from the 2022 Audit conducted by the Audit Service Sierra Leone. The two focal points of discussion included the non-disclosure of End of Service Benefits to nine former staff members and the delayed payment of Withholding Tax totaling NLe25,490.
As the proceedings unfolded, Hon. Sengepor Thomas, the Chairman of the Parliamentary Accounts Committee and Deputy Speaker of Parliament, promptly commended the Director General of NCRA, Mohamed M Massaquoi, for his exemplary response to the audit findings. Hon. Thomas praised the DG for swiftly presenting evidence that the NCRA had communicated the relevant information to the Auditor General, describing it as “a job well done.”
The Committee urged other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to follow the NCRA’s lead in conducting official business with diligence and treating audit matters seriously. Morie Lansana, Assistant Auditor General, who represented the Auditor General on the Committee, echoed the commendation.
Though the issues were resolved, Director General Mohamed M. Massaquoi assured the public that the NCRA is a compliant institution, adhering to laws and policies governing its management and operations. He clarified that the payment of End of Service Benefits falls under the purview of the Accountant General’s Department, emphasizing that the NCRA promptly informs the department of events triggering such payments.
To ensure accountability, Massaquoi stated that the NCRA has requested feedback from the Accountant General’s Department on any payments related to End of Service Benefits. The Accountant General has assured cooperation in this regard.
Following the clarifications, the NCRA received commendations from Parliamentary Accounts Committee members for the professionalism and discipline exhibited in the management of the authority since the Director General’s appointment by the President.
Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Director General Mohamed M. Massaquoi attributed the success to the dedicated team at NCRA. He acknowledged the unwavering support received from the NCRA Board, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and colleagues, emphasizing that the accolade is a collective achievement.
