More concrete action needed on AG’s report

The Auditor General’s (AG) report that was released mid this week, revealed very many loopholes within the Government financial procedures. With over Rwf 4.3 billion unaccounted for, we need to take immediate action to close up these gaps that are causing great financial losses to Rwandans. As a country that has zero tolerance to corruption, all concerned institutions that have within their mandate curbing corruption should take this report seriously, dissect it and come up with deterrent measures that would reduce the loss of taxpayers’ money. And, now that the report has been released, both prosecution and parliament should follow up and make sure that those responsible for causing financial loss to the Government are brought to book. There should also be an effort to recover as much money as possible from those found guilty of embezzling public funds. The report highlighted cases of bonuses that were paid out to staff without the necessary approval, or unauthorized salary advances and loans, not to mention excess allowances like telephone and transport. Such are examples of cases that can be avoided if jobs are respected and institutions strictly follow their procedure manuals. Now that the report is out in the open, no more time should be wasted. Mechanisms should be set up to monitor the implementation of the recommendations of the Auditor General as we together strive towards a corrupt-free Rwanda. Ends

Opinions

More concrete action needed on AG’s report