By: Thaimu Bai Sesay
During a probing session held on January 29, 2024, where the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) addressed findings from the 2022 Audit by Audit Service Sierra Leone, the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) lauded the NCRA leadership for its exemplary conduct.
The Parliamentary Committee highlighted issues, including a lapse in disclosure regarding End of Service Benefits for nine ex-employees and a delay in the payment of Withholding Tax of NLe25,490. However, the Public Accounts Committee quickly commended the Director General for his swift and thorough response to these concerns, reflecting the high standards of the NCRA’s operational transparency.
Hon. Sengepor Thomas, the Chairman of the Committee and Deputy Speaker of Parliament, praised Mr. MASSAQUOI’s efforts as a job well done. His sentiment echoed throughout the Committee Room 1, as Assistant Auditor General, Mr. Morie Lansana, representing the Auditor General, reiterated the acclaim for MASSAQUOI’s efficient handling of audit queries.
In his eloquent response, Director General MASSAQUOI reassured the public of the NCRA’s adherence to regulations, affirming that compliance with legal and policy frameworks is at the heart of the institution. He provided clarity on the Withholding Tax, assuring its inclusion in the NCRA’s financial statements for external verification. Unveiling the internal mechanisms, he disclosed the Authority’s protocol for End of Service Benefits, which is meticulously guided by the Human Resources Management Policy Manual and done in harmony with the Accountant General’s Department.
Showcasing a culture of accountability, the NCRA has advocated for feedback on any End of Service Benefits processed, a practice that the Accountant General confirmed would continue in the spirit of cooperative governance.
With resounding endorsements from the Parliamentary Account Committee, the NCRA was applauded for the Director General’s professional demeanor and disciplined stewardship. In his acknowledgment, Mr. MASSAQUOI graciously attributed his success to the collective effort of a committed team, underpinning the NCRA’s celebrated reputation. His gratitude extended to the unwavering support from the NCRA Board, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and his dedicated colleagues, whose collective endeavors have truly embodied public commendation.
A fitting end to the session saw the NCRA departing amid a cascade of affirmations for its stellar governance, with Mr. MASSAQUOI leading by example.