By Jariatu S. Bangura
In a decisive move during ongoing audits, the Public Accounts Committee has mandated the Guma Valley Water Company to install water meters in all government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), with the exception of hospitals.
This directive aims to address the chronic issue of unpaid bills by MDAs, which has significantly impacted Guma Valley’s operations, including their ability to pay employees and meet tax obligations.
The order comes as numerous MDAs have accumulated debts with Guma Valley, affecting the company’s financial stability and compliance with National Revenue Authority (NRA) and National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) contributions.
Chairman Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh expressed concern over the failure of MDAs, including Guma Valley, to transfer deducted PAYE taxes to the NRA and NASSIT promptly.
“I order Guma Valley Water Company to install prepaid meters at government institutions, excluding Connaught Hospital, PCMH, and other hospitals. Begin the installations immediately and report back by the end of July,” Hon. Conteh declared.
He emphasized that this measure is crucial for achieving targeted revenue collections by the NRA. Hon. Aaron Koroma highlighted the persistent issue of non-payment by MDAs and stressed the need for the committee to take definitive action to prevent this recurring problem.
The committee’s intervention seeks to enhance financial accountability and ensure timely compliance with tax and social security obligations.
