News article: Public expenditure management scandal in the DRC
In a recent report from the Public Expenditure Observatory (ODEP), the orthodox management of public finances by the Jules Alingete sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo was praised. This report denounces the massive budget overruns of 22 ministries and 7 public institutions of the State.
According to information reported by national deputies, these institutions and ministries all display execution rates above 100%. Alarming figures which highlight the gaps between budgetary forecasts and the reality of the expenses incurred.
Among the institutions concerned, we find the Presidency with an execution rate of 190%, the Prime Minister’s Office with 132%, the National Assembly with 145%, the Senate with 184% and the CENI with 145%. The Ministries of the Interior and Security, Defense and Veterans Affairs, National Economy, Finance, Budget, Justice, Health, EPST, ESU, Agriculture, Industry, Foreign Trade, Communication and Media, Land Affairs, Environment, Sports and Leisure, Regional Integration, Humanitarian Actions and Customary Affairs also present execution rates beyond 100%.
This situation has sparked strong criticism from certain national deputies, who denounce these budgetary overruns in all the country’s institutions. In particular, the 627% overruns in the area of Humanitarian Actions are singled out.
Faced with this scandal, it is essential to put in place control and transparency mechanisms to avoid such abuses in the future. The Congolese population needs responsible management of public finances, so that resources are used efficiently and for the benefit of all.
The work carried out by Jules Alingete and his team within the IGF is therefore of crucial importance for the good economic governance of the DRC. It is necessary to support these efforts and encourage transparent and rigorous management of public funds.
It is also essential that those responsible for these budget overruns are held accountable for their actions, in order to restore the confidence of the Congolese people in public administration.
In conclusion, the public expenditure management scandal in the DRC highlights the urgency of reforming the budget management system and strengthening control mechanisms in order to ensure responsible and transparent use of public funds. Transparency and accountability are the keys to guaranteeing the economic and social development of the country.