HARBEL, MARGIBI CO. – The Joint Public Accounts, Audit & Expenditure Committee (PAC) of the 55th Legislature has commenced a three-day retreat at the Farmington Hotel to validate its consolidated report and set the stage for the resumption of the 2025 public hearings.
The retreat, which runs from Thursday to Saturday, brings together lawmakers, technical staff, and key stakeholders, including the General Auditing Commission (GAC), represented by Deputy Auditor General Mr. Winsley S. Nanka.
Making remarks during the opening session, the Chairman of the Joint Committee, Rep. Clarence Gahr, emphasized that the retreat is in line with the General Auditing Commission Act of 2014, specifically Section 4 (2g), which mandates the Auditor General to submit audit reports to the Legislature for review.
Gahr noted that the committee has conducted a series of public hearings, giving witnesses a final opportunity to present evidence in defense or clarification. He added that the committee thoroughly reviews audit findings and incorporates its recommendations before submitting them to the Executive for implementation.
He further highlighted that under the Public Financial Management (PFM) regulations, the Committee has the authority to independently draft regulations and monitor their implementation within a 190-day period.
Also speaking at the retreat, Co-Chair of the Committee, Senator Amara Konneh, stated that upon the adoption and validation of the consolidated report by the committeeโs Secretariat, both Houses of the Legislature will revert to Plenary for endorsement. The final report will then be forwarded to the President for appropriate action.
The retreat is expected to conclude on Saturday, June 22, 2025, with participants departing on Sunday.
