Government officials have been using the online system to declare their wealth to the Office of the Ombudsman.

The new system is aimed at smooth-lining the process among officials, while further increasing the accuracy and documentation of received data. The deadline for this year’s declaration was yesterday.

Jeanne d’Arc Mwiseneza, Director of the Declaration of Assets unit at the Office of the Ombudsman said that this year, the total number of officials supposed to declare their wealth is 6170, up from last year’s 6000.

"The declaration of assets serves as a means to prevent embezzlement of public funds by ensuring accountability and transparency,”,she added.
 
Every year since 2004, the Ombudsman’s office has received annual asset declarations from all high level officials as well as any persons managing public finances and property.

The asset declaration is designed to support the country’s zero-corruption policy, maintain proper accountability to the people, and encourage integrity.
 
Mwiseneza stated that since January this year, the office has conducted training programs across all public institutions to ensure everyone involved is able to comfortably use the new online system.
 
The assets that qualify for declaration include immovable assets such as houses and land; movable assets, such as livestock, cash and vehicles; nonphysical assets, such as shares, debts owed and debts to others; as well as assets of one’s spouse if married and assets of any children below eighteen years.

The declaration indicates the source of assets, any donations or gifts received, and the location and total value of wealth.
 
After receiving the information, the Office of the Ombudsman then presents an official verification of assets declared. The employees of the Office of the Ombudsman also declare their wealth to the Senate.

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