…. PAC hears explanation on disputed expenditure
BY MBONO MDLULI
LOBAMBA– The Private and Cabinet Office (Prime Minister’s Office) has denied claims that it purchased a television screen valued at E1.2 million, clarifying that the funds in question were used for meeting-related materials.
The matter came to light on Monday, 4 May 2026, when the office appeared before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) during its first session of the 2026 sittings at the House of Assembly.
Principal Secretary Bheki Bhembe told the committee that the widely circulated figure did not reflect the actual procurement, explaining that no such television screen had been purchased.
Investigation reveals procurement irregularities
Bhembe informed the committee that an internal investigation had been conducted following concerns raised by the Auditor General’s Office.
The audit query had flagged the expenditure while compiling a report currently under review by the PAC as part of its mandate to ensure accountability in the use of public funds.
According to findings presented to the committee, the supplier tasked with procuring the materials had inflated the prices of certain items while underpricing others, resulting in discrepancies in the overall cost.
“The investigation found that the party responsible for procurement inflated some prices and underpriced others,” Bhembe explained.
MPs raise concerns over public funds
Members of Parliament serving on the Public Accounts Committee expressed concern over the magnitude of the funds involved, emphasising that public resources must be safeguarded.
Legislators noted that the amount in question represented funds belonging to emaSwati and called for stronger oversight mechanisms to prevent similar occurrences in future.
The committee underscored the importance of transparency and accountability in government procurement processes, particularly in cases where irregularities are identified.
Call for stronger technical oversight
The PAC further recommended that the Ministry of Information Communication and Technology should have been involved in the procurement process.
Members argued that the ministry’s technical expertise could have helped ensure appropriate pricing, proper specifications and greater accountability, potentially preventing the discrepancies that were identified.
Reinforcing accountability in public expenditure
The engagement forms part of the PAC’s broader efforts to hold government institutions accountable and ensure that public funds are used efficiently and responsibly.
The committee continues to review reports from various ministries and departments, with a focus on identifying gaps and strengthening financial management systems.
The clarification by the Private and Cabinet Office marks an important step in addressing public concerns, while the investigation’s findings highlight the need for stricter procurement controls and enhanced oversight in government operations.
(Courtesy Pic)
