Chief executive officers of municipal councils have received a clear message from the Government regarding financial accountability. Minister for Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, has emphasized that municipal leaders will be held responsible for every dollar spent as the Government intensifies its financial oversight.
During a recent address, Nalumisa underscored the need for improved financial discipline, reporting, and internal controls across all municipalities. “Every single cent that a council spends will be accounted for; accountability is essential, and we expect timely financial reporting,” he stated. Municipalities are now required to present their monthly reports and management accounts consistently.
The Minister also issued a strong warning against violations of procurement procedures, highlighting that compliance is non-negotiable. He prohibited practices such as contract splitting, circumventing established procedures, and informal arrangements. “Any deviation from your policy and procedures must be addressed promptly,” Nalumisa insisted.
Furthermore, he stressed that funds allocated by the Government for projects and subsidies should be utilized strictly for their intended purposes, and any modifications must be approved accordingly. Nalumisa noted that maintaining robust internal controls is vital for safeguarding public funds and fostering trust in local government institutions.
With these measures in place, there is hope that local councils will demonstrate greater transparency and responsibility, ultimately contributing to the effective governance of municipal funds. This initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to enhancing the financial integrity of local governance, ensuring that public resources are managed judiciously.