By Shadrach Aziz Kamara
As Parliament continues its engagement with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) on sub-budget appropriations for the 2025 Fiscal Year, Honourable Abdul Latif Sesay, Chairman of Sub-Committee 7, has reassured MDAs that the process is not a witch-hunt but a critical review to ensure government funds are appropriately and fairly utilized.
Hon. Sesay made this statement during a session with the Arms and Ammunition Commission on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. He emphasized that the exercise is in line with Parliament’s constitutional and legislative mandate to scrutinize the fiscal year budgets of MDAs.
Citing Section 112(6) of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone (Act No. 6) and Standing Orders 64(3) and 66(1) of Parliament, Hon. Sesay explained that the Appropriation Sub-Committee is tasked with reviewing MDA budget estimates to facilitate debates in the Committee of Supply.
Addressing the Commission, Hon. Sesay highlighted that the sessions are designed to foster dialogue, identify challenges in service delivery, and address financial and administrative constraints. He noted that the interactive nature of the process ensures a level playing field for witnesses to freely present their case without fear.
“It is a traditional function of the Legislature, as enshrined in the country’s legal framework, to inquire into the activities of MDAs,” he stated. “I implore the full cooperation of MDAs to attend and actively contribute to this process. Together, we aim to accurately examine the issues and propose sustainable solutions.”
Hon. Sesay underscored that the engagements are critical for promoting accountability and ensuring the transparent utilization of state resources, thereby complementing the government’s efforts in these areas.
Deputy Chairman of Sub-Committee 7, Hon. Ibrahim Aziz Bangura, reinforced the importance of honesty during the proceedings. He warned attendees that providing false information to Parliament constitutes perjury, a serious offence.
“We encourage witnesses to address the Committee with an open mind and to speak the truth. Any attempt to mislead Parliament will not be taken lightly,” Hon. Bangura cautioned.
Representing the Arms and Ammunition Commission, Senior Finance Officer Mrs. Mabinty Bindi expressed gratitude to the Members of Parliament for their warm reception. She provided an overview of the Commission’s mandate, mission, and vision while detailing its challenges and priorities.
Mrs. Bindi commended the parliamentary process, noting that it offers MDAs an opportunity to engage directly with lawmakers on budgetary and operational matters.
