Chief executive officers of municipal councils have been warned they will be held accountable for every dollar spent as Government tightens financial oversight of councils.
Minister for Local Government Maciu Nalumisa said financial discipline, reporting and internal controls must improve across all municipalities.
“Every single cent that a council spends will be accounted for, accountability is very important and we expect timely financial reporting,” Mr Nalumisa said.
“The monthly report, the management accounts, must be presented on a monthly basis.”
He also warned against breaches in procurement procedures.
“Procurement compliance is non-negotiable. No contract splitting, no bypassing of procedures, and no informal arrangements.
“If there is a deviation from your policy, if there is a deviation from your procedures, you must make sure that you address it.”
Mr Nalumisa said funds allocated by Government for projects and subsidies must be used strictly for their intended purposes and any variation must receive approval.
He said strong internal controls were critical to protecting public funds and maintaining public trust in local government institutions.
