- MPs encourage stronger financial controls and sustained compliance
By Mbono Mdluli
LOBAMBA – The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has commended the Ministry of Public Service for taking corrective measures to address outstanding statutory remittances while encouraging the ministry to strengthen financial controls to prevent similar challenges in future.
The ministry appeared before the PAC on Friday to respond to audit findings raised by the Office of the Auditor General regarding delayed remittance of certain statutory deductions and employee benefit contributions.
During the meeting, Auditor General Timothy Matsebula informed the committee that the ministry had recorded outstanding remittances relating to taxes, medical aid contributions and VAT. However, ministry officials assured the committee that the issues had since been addressed and that some of the amounts cited related to a different financial year than the one under review.
The PAC welcomed the ministry’s efforts to resolve the matters raised and acknowledged the progress made in addressing the audit findings.
Members of Parliament encouraged the ministry to maintain compliance with financial management regulations and ensure that statutory deductions and employee contributions are remitted promptly.
Ngwemphisi Member of Parliament Bishop Bhekibandla Alex Vilakati emphasized the importance of honouring all statutory obligations on time, noting that government institutions have a responsibility to safeguard the interests of employees and service beneficiaries.
PAC Deputy Chairperson Manzi Vincent Zwane urged the ministry to continue strengthening its internal financial systems to ensure the timely processing of all remittances. He noted that prompt payment of taxes, medical aid contributions and other statutory obligations helps guarantee uninterrupted access to services for employees and the public.
Ludzeludze MP Nomkhosi Masuku also encouraged the ministry to build on the improvements already achieved. She observed that audit queries appeared to be decreasing and urged officials to continue addressing the remaining issues to achieve even stronger audit outcomes in future.
The engagement formed part of the PAC’s ongoing oversight work aimed at promoting accountability, transparency and sound financial management across government institutions. Committee members emphasized that proactive measures remain key to ensuring effective management of public resources and continued compliance with financial regulations.
