The Leader of Opposition Hon Matthew Wale has applauded the Commissioner of Police for initiating investigations into the report of the audit of COVID-19 funds.
The recently released Audit Report by the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) contains serious financial mismanagement of COVID 19 funds by the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), Ministry of Infrastructure Development and the Ministry of Health & Medical Services.
In a statement, Hon Wale has welcomed the collaborative investigation announced by the Police Commissioner with the OAG. He said this is a step in the right direction.
The Opposition Leader said it is about time that audit reports from OAG are investigated instead of being swept under the carpet.
Hon. Wale said lack of investigation into such reports in the past has resulted in serious gaps in the financial system giving room for corrupt practices to thrive. He urged the Police Commissioner to seek expert assistance in ensuring that this matter is properly investigated.
“The findings cover a broad range of acts captured by financial procedures and criminal law. Thus, no stones should be left unturned,” he said.
Hon Wale said investigations should not only cover officers along the paper trail but also those in authority where decisions are made.
The Opposition Leader said on face value the report is focused on exposing gaps in the financial system and recommendations for improvement.
“It is important that investigations go beyond these and start with those in authority and everyone involved in this corruptive network,” he said.
Hon Wale said corrupt practice in the abuse of government processes to serve personal interest continues to plague our government system.
He said such practice has always been played to the advantage of a few for their own personal gains.
Source: Opposition Press
