“So, it is a matter of choice and convenience. You don’t trouble yourself to prepare bank reconciliations?” Lead Counsel Patrick Gomez questioned.
In response, Sambou acknowledged the lapse but argued that no administration operates at 100 percent efficiency.
Gomez, however, dismissed this reasoning, stating that the lack of accountability in financial reporting is not a mere lapse but a deliberate failure. Despite not preparing monthly reconciliations, Sambou maintained that the council has demonstrated accountability.
“There is no accountability. You cannot have accountability if you intentionally disregard your obligations as per the laws and regulations for council funds,” Gomez countered.
Sambou revealed that bank reconciliations are conducted only once a year. When pressed on why such reconciliations are essential, he admitted they help track transactions and ensure financial transparency.
Gomez, however, questioned his commitment to accountability. “Why would you not insist on bank reconciliations? Are you not interested in knowing where every dalasi goes?”
The inquiry further revealed that the council does not have a designated cashier. Sambou stated that he had temporarily assigned the senior secretary to the role, but she was eventually removed due to difficulties handling financial tasks.
When asked why he did not request the appointment of a cashier, Sambou argued that given the council’s salary budget, the role would be underutilised. Gomez strongly disagreed, asserting that a cashier is as essential as a CEO or finance director.
The investigation also uncovered that revenue collectors and the finance director were handling payments, a practice that raised serious concerns about financial oversight.
Sambou admitted to shortcomings in the council’s strategic plan implementation, citing financial constraints as a key obstacle. However, Gomez pointed out that many of the council’s unfulfilled plans did not require significant funding.
On the matter of internal auditing, Sambou stated that most payments undergo pre and post-auditing. However, some expenditures at collection centers bypass the process. Gomez warned that such unchecked spending could accumulate into substantial financial discrepancies.
The inquiry continues as the commission scrutinises the financial management practices of the Kuntaur Area Council.
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