This statement was made yesterday during a meeting with the OVP in which they were to be updated on the resolution of 30th September 2024 – that all government institutions “must immediately regularise all rental agreements” they have with Committee on Rent and Accommodation (CORA) and desist any further negotiation on their own.
An official of the Accountant General who briefed members of FPAC, stated that they have been proposing to ministries to build or renovate complex rather than budgeting annually on rents. According to him, this brings a loss of revenue to the government.
Hon. Kebba Lang Fofana, a nominated lawmaker, expressed that the government spent enormous sums on rent which could be used to build a complex or renovate old buildings.
Lamin Camara, permanent secretary, Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs, observed that looking at the current financing mechanisms that are put in place it would be difficult.
“All the investors I have come across with are saying we can do it, but the compensation period of recovery investment is very long for buildings,”
However, Hon. Fofana intervened, asking PS Camara how much his ministry pays on rent annually?
PS Camara responded, saying 3 million for 5 years. However, Hon Fofana stated 15 million could be used to build a complex rather than paying it on rent.
However, PS Camara revealed that proposals were made to ministries but most of them declined and preferred renting since it was more accommodating.
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