Governor of Kasai Oriental badly received by finance inspectors
In a situation that is reminiscent of the friction between the provincial authorities and the control bodies, the governor of Kasaï Oriental, Patrick Mathias Kabeya Matshi Abidi, opposed the control mission of the IGF (Inspection Générale des Finances) in his province. This opposition was marked by the manu militari evacuation of the governorate’s finance inspectors, ordered by the governor himself. A video of the scene, which has gone viral on social networks, testifies to the tension which reigns between the two parties.
The governor justifies his opposition by arguing that the Court of Auditors is already carrying out an audit in his jurisdiction. However, this claim appears to be unfounded. The first president of the Court of Auditors has indeed declared that there was no ongoing control mission in Kasai Oriental. A letter from the Court announcing an audit of the province’s finances would have been adjourned sine die by another official letter. It therefore appears that the governor used this false argument to oppose the IGF’s control mission.
This reaction of the governor arouses strong criticism from many analysts and various political actors. Some even call him a “gangster” because of his supposed desire to hide bank accounts created in the name of the province, through which large sums would pass to unknown destinations.
These events highlight the ongoing tensions between provincial authorities and oversight bodies in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. However, public finance control missions are essential to ensure transparency, integrity and good governance at the provincial level. It is therefore essential that all actors collaborate constructively in the interest of the country and its population.
The situation in Kasaï Oriental also raises broader questions regarding the fight against corruption and the need to strengthen the mechanisms of control and accountability of political and administrative leaders. Abuses and abuses of power must be fought with determination to ensure the development and well-being of all Congolese.
In conclusion, it is necessary to recall the crucial importance of control missions in the management of public finances. The provincial authorities have the responsibility to cooperate and facilitate the work of the control bodies, in order to guarantee transparent and efficient management of public resources. Only a sincere and transparent collaboration between all actors can help build trust and build a better future for the Democratic Republic of the Congo.