The Undersecretary of the Audit Bureau, Attia Hussein, head of the Tax Authority, called for the obligation of public entities to obtain the approval of the Audit Bureau for any contract whose value exceeds 5 million Libyan dinars.
Attia attributed this measure based on the decision of the Administrative Chamber of the Supreme Court dated 1/17/2024, which ruled that Law No. 2 of 2023 regarding adding some provisions to Law No. 20 of 2013 establishing the Administrative Oversight Authority was unconstitutional.
The Undersecretary of the Bureau explained in an official letter, a copy of which was obtained by Al-Ahrar, that the Audit Bureau is the constitutional institution entrusted with the responsibility of monitoring all revenues and expenditures, including prior oversight of contracts and other financial transactions.
Attia stressed that the jurisdiction of the Audit Bureau to exercise all types of financial oversight is an inalienable constitutional jurisdiction and cannot be derogated from, calling for respect for judicial rulings and a commitment to working with the provisions of Law No. 19 of 2013 regarding the reorganization of the Audit Bureau and its amendments.
Source: Official letter
How can public entities ensure compliance with the Audit Bureau’s requirements under the recent Supreme Court ruling?
Title: Insights on the New Oversight Measures from the Audit Bureau: An Interview with Attia Hussein
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Attia Hussein, the Undersecretary of the Audit Bureau and head of the Tax Authority. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent ruling by the Supreme Court and its implications for public contracts in Libya.
Attia Hussein: Thank you for having me. I’m pleased to be here to shed light on these important developments.
Time.news Editor: Let’s start with the recent decision from the Administrative Chamber of the Supreme Court. You mentioned that it ruled Law No. 2 of 2023 as unconstitutional. Can you explain why this ruling is significant?
Attia Hussein: Absolutely. The ruling fundamentally underscores the importance of the Audit Bureau’s role in safeguarding public funds. By reinforcing our authority, it ensures that any public contracts exceeding 5 million Libyan dinars require our approval. This oversight is crucial for financial accountability and transparency in government expenditures.
Time.news Editor: How does this new measure affect public entities that are entering contracts? What should they do to remain compliant?
Attia Hussein: Public entities must now submit any contract exceeding the specified value to the Audit Bureau for validation. This procedure aims not only to uphold the integrity of financial transactions but also to ensure that expenditures bring value to public interests. I urge all entities to familiarize themselves with Law No. 19 of 2013 regarding the reorganization of the Audit Bureau and its amendments, as compliance is mandatory.
Time.news Editor: There seems to be an emphasis on respecting judicial rulings. How do you foresee the public and government officials responding to this call for compliance?
Attia Hussein: I expect a positive response. The emphasis on legal compliance is essential for fostering a culture of accountability in public service. By adhering to these guidelines, we can build trust in our institutions and promote good governance, which ultimately benefits the citizens of Libya.
Time.news Editor: From an industry perspective, what are the broader implications of this decision for fiscal management in the country?
Attia Hussein: This decision significantly enhances our financial oversight capabilities. It sends a strong message about the necessity of accountability in managing public resources. Moreover, it may encourage better planning and execution of contracts, as entities will be required to provide justifications for expenditures exceeding the threshold. Ultimately, this could lead to more efficient use of resources and improved public services.
Time.news Editor: What practical advice do you have for public sector managers as they navigate this new requirement?
Attia Hussein: My advice would be to incorporate the Audit Bureau’s requirements into their planning stages. They should engage with our office early in the contracting process to understand what documentation and justifications will be necessary. Additionally, enhancing their internal controls and financial management processes will prove beneficial in facilitating smoother interactions with the Audit Bureau.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Attia, for sharing your insights on these pivotal changes. Is there anything else you would like to add for our readers?
Attia Hussein: I would like to reiterate the importance of collaboration between public entities and the Audit Bureau. Together, we can ensure that Libya’s public finances are managed prudently and transparently, fostering trust and accountability for all citizens. Thank you for this opportunity to inform the public on these critical issues.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your time and expertise, Attia. This has been very informative, and we appreciate your contributions to promoting transparency in governance.
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Keywords: Audit Bureau, Libyan dinars, public contracts, financial oversight, accountability, transparency, judicial rulings, fiscal management, government expenditures, compliance.