** The revival of the financial patrol in the DRC: towards a new era of transparency? **
In an increasingly worrying socio-economic context in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the decision of the head of state Félix Tshisekedi to revive control A priori via the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF) marks a significant turning point. The financial patrol, which has already proven its effectiveness in preserving public resources, is positioned today as an essential player in the fight against corruption, a phenomenon largely established in the cogs of Congolese administration.
### Security and humanitarian context: a key factor
The eastern DRC is at the crossroads, ravaged by prolonged armed conflicts that exacerbate the vulnerability of local populations. The humanitarian crisis that flows requires considerable resources, in a country where the management of public funds is regularly tarnished with irregularities. The financial patrol, by focusing on the a priori control of public spending, comes at a time when the issues are colossal. In a recent declaration, Jules Allégete Key, the Inspector General of Finance, revealed that the IGF made it possible to avoid nearly $ 1.5 billion in irregular spending in 2023. This raises crucial questions: how could these sums be reinvested to improve the situation of the millions of Congolese?
### A three -step strategy: A priori control efficiency
This new control approach was designed in response to the complex nature of financial management in the DRC. With three separate control methods – a priori, concomitant and a posteriori – the IGF strives to adapt to realities on the ground. A priori control turns out to be particularly relevant in a country where financial managers are often tempted by corruption. In addition, the importance of the commitment of government actors in this fight against corruption is crucial. The formal prohibition to initiate unauthorized expenses or to make risky appointments is a clear appeal to responsibility.
### Comparison with other African countries: a model to follow?
By leaning on the financial control model in force in other African countries, it is possible to draw an interesting comparison. Take Rwanda for example, which has managed to set up robust financial governance, thus generating impressive economic results despite a troubled past. Rwanda has been able to integrate strict control mechanisms while valuing transparency and ethics, two elements which often lack elsewhere on the continent. While the DRC struggles to chase poor management practices, Rwandan lessons may well offer a reference framework.
### The actors to mobilize: from state to civil society
In order for the success of the revival of the financial patrol is not just a wish, it is imperative to include a multitude of actors. Civil society, for example, should play a lookout role in this process. Citizen budget control initiatives could make it possible to mobilize community resources and encourage administrations more rigor. In addition, encouraging the training of public officials in good financial management, coupled with awareness campaigns, could generate a culture of transparency, essential in this battle against corruption.
### Conclusion: a bet on the future
The recovery of control a priori by the IGF under the aegis of Félix Tshisekedi could well lay the groundwork for a revival in terms of economic governance in the DRC. However, the search for better management of public finances requires a collective commitment, going beyond the simple institutional framework. A mobilization which must include the State, public establishments, but also civil society, is essential to transform this ambitious project into a tangible reality. The time is in a strict and responsibility, but also for the hope of a better future for the Congolese. If this dynamic of control is accompanied by a targeted investment in essential services, the DRC could, in the long term, envisage an exit from sustainable crisis and the construction of a better future for all its citizens.
This trip to better management of public resources is both necessary and perilous, but it could prove to be the foundation of a Democratic Republic of renewed Congo. The financial patrol, under the vigilant gaze of citizens, could not only become a safeguard against mismanagement, but also an instrument of development and prosperity for a country that needs it so much.