By Kadiatu A.Turay

In a landmark effort to increase government transparency and accountability, the Chief Minister’s Office has launched a comprehensive Fiscal Transparency Initiative aimed at enhancing public access to government financial information. The initiative, introduced during a press briefing at the State House, signals the administration’s commitment to ensuring responsible use of public funds and fostering a more informed citizenry.

The new initiative encompasses a series of measures to make government spending, budget allocations, and fiscal reports easily accessible to the public. Key components include regular publication of financial reports, enhanced digital platforms for information dissemination, and ongoing audits to ensure that government activities align with budgetary provisions. Additionally, government officials highlighted plans to engage civil society organizations in monitoring and verifying fiscal information.

Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh, speaking at the launch, emphasized the importance of transparency in building public trust. “A transparent government is the foundation of a strong democracy. Through this initiative, we aim to empower our citizens by giving them direct access to how public resources are managed and spent,” he stated. Sengeh reiterated the government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility, saying that the initiative will allow citizens to hold government institutions accountable.

In line with this effort, the Chief Minister’s Office is also launching a user-friendly online portal that will serve as a central hub for accessing budget reports, audit summaries, and expenditure breakdowns. The portal is designed to simplify the often-complex financial information, making it easier for the general public to understand and analyze government spending patterns. The platform will also allow users to submit questions and feedback, providing an additional layer of engagement.

Civil society leaders and transparency advocates have applauded the initiative as a positive step toward building an accountable governance structure. Many believe that, if effectively implemented, the Fiscal Transparency Initiative could strengthen public oversight and reduce instances of financial mismanagement.