In the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a financial scandal shakes parliament and highlights murky practices and obscure spending. The explosive report entitled “Biface of the Congolese parliament, a controller to be controlled”, reveals alarming figures: more than 298.9 million dollars were spent between 2021 and 2023, representing an unauthorized amount of 3% of the budget of the State.
The revelations from the Center for Research in Public Expenditure and Local Development (CREFDL) highlight damning facts. In particular, exorbitant expenditure on the purchase of vehicles by the lower house of parliament. In 2022, the purchase of 26 buses for an amount of $90.2 million, a budget overrun of 2000%, raises questions about the transparency and legitimacy of these transactions. In addition, the Senate is not left out with expenditures of $422,893 for vehicles, exceeding the initial budget without a plausible explanation.
Investments in construction projects are also not without controversy. The Senate archives project, awarded for an amount of $63,518, saw a gap of $18,723 between the amount paid and that appearing in the initial contract. Likewise, the construction of buildings intended for the administration has an execution rate of 80.38%, raising questions about the management of public funds.
These revelations underline the urgency of reforms and transparency measures within the Congolese parliament. Strengthening the role of the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF) and the Court of Auditors is recommended to audit special funds and controversial expenditure. In addition, clarification of budget lines and purchasing procedures is essential to restore citizen confidence.
This report highlights the risks of corruption and mismanagement of public funds in the democratic institutions of the DRC. It calls for greater accountability and transparency to ensure sound and ethical governance. Citizens expect concrete measures to fight corruption and ensure judicious use of state financial resources.