In an unequivocal display of impeccable public service, Mr. Mohamed M. Massaquoi, Director General of the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), received glowing commendations from the esteemed Parliamentary Accounts Committee.
This recognition unfolded during a probing session held on January 29, 2024, where the NCRA addressed findings from the 2022 Audit by Audit Service Sierra Leone.
The Committee spotlighted issues – a lapse in disclosure regarding End of Service Benefits for Nine ex-employees, and a delay in the payment of Withholding Tax of NLe25,490.
However, Public Accounts Committee was quick to salute the Director General’s swift and thorough response to these concerns, reflecting the high standards of the NCRA’s operational transparency.
Hon. Sengepor Thomas, the dynamic Chairman of the Committee and Deputy Speaker of Parliament, hailed Mr. Massaquio’s efforts as a job well done. His sentiment echoed throughout the Committee Room 1, as Assistant Auditor General, Mr. Morie Lansana, representing the Auditor General, reiterated the acclaim for Massaquio’s efficient handling of audit queries.
In his eloquent response, Director General Massaquoi reassured the public of NCRA’s adherence to regulation, affirming that compliance with legal and policy frameworks is at the heart of the institution. He provided clarity on the Withholding Tax, assuring its inclusion in the NCRA’s financial statements for external verification. Unveiling the internal mechanisms, he disclosed the Authority’s protocol for End of Service Benefits, which is meticulously guided by the Human Resources Management Policy Manual and done in harmony with the Accountant General’s Department.
Showcasing a culture of accountability, the NCRA has advocated for feedback on any End of Service Benefits processed, a practice that the Accountant General confirmed would continue in the spirit of cooperative governance.
With resounding endorsements from the Parliamentary Account Committee, the NCRA was applauded for the Director General’s professional demeanor and disciplined stewardship. In his acknowledgment, Mr. Massaquoi graciously attributed his success to the collective effort of a committed team, underpinning the NCRA’s celebrated reputation. His gratitude extended to the unwavering support from the NCRA Board, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and his dedicated colleagues,whose collective endeavors have truly embodied public commendation.
A befitting end of the session saw the NCRA departing amid a cascade of affirmations for its stellar governance and Mr. Massaquoi leading by example.