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| Rarieda MP Dr Otiende Amollo |
The National Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) examined the financial accounts of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for the financial year ending June 2023, in a bid to enhance accountability in the utilization of public resources.
PAC members, led by Chairperson Hon. Tindi Mwale (Butere) on Tuesday, interrogated expenditure trends, budget absorption rates, and financial management practices within the ODPP.
The lawmakers scrutinized key areas, including pending bills, procurement processes, and compliance with the Public Finance Management Act.
Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga, alongside senior ODPP officials who appeared before the committee, defended the office’s financial decisions, outlining the expenditures and justifying allocations.
The officials emphasized the ODPP’s commitment to improving prosecutorial efficiency while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Among the primary concerns raised by the committee members were the utilization of allocated funds for high-profile cases, operational costs, and resource allocation to enhance access to justice.
Members demanded clarity on budget variances, underutilization of funds in specific programs, and strategies to address financial bottlenecks.
Additionally, the committee pressed the ODPP on measures undertaken to bolster financial reporting and internal controls, preventing wastage, misappropriation, or unauthorized spending.
The legislators stressed the need for robust financial discipline, timely reporting, and adherence to statutory regulations governing public expenditure.
In response, DPP Ingonga assured PAC that the ODPP is implementing reforms to enhance financial management, including the automation of processes, improved auditing mechanisms, and strengthened accountability frameworks.
He reaffirmed the office’s commitment to working closely with oversight bodies to ensure transparency in public prosecution operations.
Following the deliberations, the PAC resolved to issue recommendations aimed at reinforcing financial governance within the ODPP.
