The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament has unveiled its July to September 2016 quarterly work plan in a bid intended to streamline their activities as they address the backlog of accountability reports from several ministries and government agencies.
The Committee Chairperson, Angeline Osegge (Soroti) urged Members to actively participate in committee activities especially upcoming workshops which she said will enhance their capability in handling sensitive accountability questions.
“I welcome members from the Munyonyo workshop and also encourage you all to attend all other scheduled workshops which will widen our appreciation of handling accountability issues in line with our mandate,” Osegge said.
She also informed Committee Members about a two-day workshop organised by Office of the Auditor General which commences on August 15, 2016.
According to a July 27th letter from Office of the Auditor General addressed to the Public Accounts Committee Chairperson, the workshop is intended to sensitize members of accountability committees on key highlights of the Audit Report for the Financial Year 2014/2015.
“It is will also provide guidance to committees for developing work plans to discuss the Audit Report effectively,” reads the letter in part.
The Committee, which was also scheduled to meet officials from Ministries of Internal Affairs and Local Government, adjourned after the officials declined to attend and instead proposed different dates.
Mazuri County Member of Parliament Hon. Akora Maxwell, also a Committee member, requested the Committee to reject dates set by officials meant to appear before them but rather move in line with appointments set by the Committee.
“I wonder whether it is proper for the officials to choose when to appear before us,” said MP Akora, before adding that according to the current backlog, officials’ response to summons from the Committee must be swift and prompt.
