Title: Tensions between the Court of Auditors and the BCeCo reveal controversies in the management of the Local Development Program of 145 Territories in the DRC
Introduction :
In the world of public management in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a recent controversy erupted between the Court of Auditors and the Director General of the Central Coordination Office (BCeCo). This controversy concerns the management of the Local Development Program of 145 Territories and highlights differences of opinion and questions about the transparency and accountability of the use of public funds. This article explores the different points of view and issues related to this case.
The position of the Court of Auditors:
In an official correspondence dated July 17, 2023, the Court of Auditors categorically denies having carried out an audit relating to the Local Development Program of 145 Territories. It emphasizes that any audit or control requires the issuance of a mission order by the first president of the Court, in accordance with the organic law governing it. The Court of Auditors therefore deplores the declarations of the general manager of the BCeCo who affirms the contrary. It recalls that the missions of the public prosecutor’s office at the Court of Auditors are not equivalent to the control missions of the Court itself.
BCeCo reactions:
For his part, the Director General of the BCeCo, in an information note addressed to the heads of antenna, supports the position according to which the Court of Auditors is the only body competent to control the files relating to the Local Development Program of 145 Territories. He underlines that any other structure or service cannot intervene in these checks. This declaration by the Director General of the BCeCo aroused the astonishment of the Court of Auditors, which considers that this goes beyond the prerogatives and the precedence of the Court of Control over financial bodies and public property.
Challenges for transparency and financial accountability:
Beyond the controversy between the Court of Auditors and the BCeCo, this case raises broader questions about transparency and financial accountability in the management of public funds in the DRC. The Local Development Program of 145 Territories represents significant public investments and it is essential to guarantee an efficient and responsible use of these resources. This controversy highlights the need for rigorous and independent control to ensure the proper management of these funds.
Conclusion :
The confrontation between the Court of Auditors and the BCeCo over the Local Development Program of 145 Territories in the DRC highlights tensions and differences of opinion in the management of public funds. Transparency and financial responsibility are crucial issues to ensure the sustainable and equitable development of territories