According to the audit findings read by Alhagie S. Darboe, Chairperson of FPAC, the vehicle labelled Ombudsman 11 was impounded at Denton Bridge in 2020 by the Vehicle Control Unit for use during the President’s Meet the People tour.
The FPAC Chairperson said the Ombudsman vehicle was never returned to the Ombudsman’s office.
Mr Sanyang told the committee that the office made several follow-ups to retrieve the vehicle, including renewed efforts when the issue was raised by auditors. “However, those efforts proved unsuccessful,” he said. It was later discovered that the vehicle had been reallocated to the PSC, where it continued to be used.
“When the auditors came and were checking on our vehicles, they discovered that it was not present,” the Ombudsman explained, noting that the office had done what it could to recover it. He added that at this stage, the vehicle might no longer even be roadworthy.
“That’s when management agreed to write off the vehicle from its books,” he said, stating that “it is no longer in the control or custody of the office”.
Auditors advised that follow-ups for its return should continue and that proper documentation be maintained.
Lawmakers also raised concerns about the broader issue of commandeering vehicles from independent institutions, warning that such actions disrupt operations.
Members noted that institutions like the Ombudsman operate with limited fleets, and the removal of even one or two vehicles can significantly affect their work. It was suggested that engagement be made with the Office of the President to prevent similar occurrences.
Mr Sanyang further disclosed that vehicles numbered Ombudsman 4, 5, 6, 7 and 12 “are no longer roadworthy”. Despite this, their carrying amounts remain embedded in the Property, Plant and Equipment balance due to the depreciation method used.
He said the office had written to the Ministry of Finance, in a letter dated February 25, 2025, seeking clearance to dispose of the vehicles that were not roadworthy as well as other broken assets, including air conditioners, printers and furniture. At the time of the hearing, no response had been received.
He described the abandoned vehicles as occupying space and posing environmental and safety concerns at the office premises. Some members expressed frustration that clearance delays were preventing disposal.
Beyond vehicles, the committee also reviewed audit queries relating to extra fuel allocations and unused medical funds.
Mr Sanyang acknowledged weaknesses in documentation, particularly regarding fuel allowance adjustments during periods of rising pump prices, and pledged to formalise policies and record decisions properly.
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