challenges
By Khumbo Kaliwo:
Researchers have faulted Parliament for failing to scrutinise reports from government agencies.
This is contained in an Oversight Agency Reports’ Study which researchers from Democracy Works Foundation (DWF) conducted.
They examined the performance and impact of selected oversight agencies that submit reports to Parliament.
Speaking in Lilongwe during an agency reports’ validation workshop, DWF Deputy Regional Director Fannie Nthakomwa said, if adopted, recommendations made in the report can strengthen the effectiveness and independence of Parliament.
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“The report has noted gaps on how Parliament disposes off agency reports and we seek to enhance and strengthen the coordination between oversight integrity institutions and Parliament.
“We conducted the study to enhance the utilisation of oversight agency reports, as regards parliamentary oversight, thereby promoting transparency, accountability and good governance in the country,” Nthakomwa said.
According to findings of the study, some committee reports are left pending on the Order Paper over a long period before they are introduced.
It further says some reports fall off the agenda after gathering dust on the shelves.
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The findings also indicate that some parliamentary committee members subsequently learn about recommendations made by government agencies but do not make any immediate plans for further action.
Chief Auditor at the National Audit Office Rabson Kagwaminga said most of the issues in reports they present to Parliament are recurrent, which means recommendations made in reports are not acted upon, such that they reappear in subsequent reports.
“In terms of implementation, we still have a long way to go and it’s something we are trying to improve. We are working with others to improve on it,” he said.
Chairperson for the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament Mark Botomani said the gaps have been there for some time.
He appealed to development partners to enhance Parliament’s capacity.
“Sometimes, we face challenges because of the political dynamics of the House but we have seen some recommendations bearing fruits,” Botomani said.
Among other things, the report has recommended that Parliament’s oversight role be strengthened through amendment of Standing Orders.
It also pushes for financial autonomy of Parliament and an extension of the duration of committee meetings.
