Rédaction Africa Links 24 with New Dawn
Published on 2024-03-26 01:30:00
Madam Mary Broh, the former Director General of the General Services Agency (GSA) under the Weah-led regime, has come under scrutiny following an audit conducted by the General Auditing Commission (GAC). The audit uncovered various financial, administrative, and corrupt practices that took place during her tenure at the GSA.
The primary objective of the GAC audit was to ensure that the GSA’s financial statements for the Fiscal Year 2016/2017-2019/2020 were free from material misstatements and complied with relevant laws and regulations. It also aimed to assess whether the financial statements were prepared according to the required financial reporting framework and to report the findings to the Legislature as mandated by the GAC Act of 2014.
The audit report revealed several irregularities, including the GSA management changing approved contractors without obtaining necessary approval from the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC). Additionally, funds amounting to US$23,342.02 were allocated to different vendors for repairs and maintenance without proper procurement procedures being followed.
One of the most concerning findings in the report was the waiver of US$53,000.00 to Abi Jaoudi and Azar Corporation without justification for the amount waived. The audit also highlighted discrepancies in the lease agreements for government properties, with properties being leased at below-market rates without proper appraisals.
Furthermore, the audit uncovered instances where payments were made to vendors without valid contracts and for goods and services that were not provided. It also noted a lack of control over the leasing and rental of government properties, with insufficient documentation to verify the completeness and accuracy of transactions.
The report raised concerns about the completeness and accuracy of revenue generated from the sale or lease of government properties, as funds were deposited into unauthorized accounts instead of the government revenue account. The GAC also criticized the GSA for not using a double-entry accounting system, which could result in misstated financial statements.
Despite attempts to reach out to Madam Broh for her response to the audit findings, she did not respond to phone calls, text messages, or WhatsApp contacts. The audit report has highlighted serious shortcomings in the financial and administrative practices at the GSA during her leadership, raising questions about accountability and transparency in the management of government resources.
Overall, the audit has shed light on the need for greater oversight and accountability in government agencies to prevent corruption and ensure that public funds are used in a transparent and responsible manner.
Read the original article on The Newdawn Liberia
