By: Patrick Hinga George, Public Education Officer, ACC
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Eastern Regional Office in Kenema on the 24th February 2026, held a customised meeting with staff of the National Revenue Authority (NRA) as part of the Commission’s efforts to reinforce integrity and accountability in domestic revenue mobilization.
The session brought together management and staff of the NRA in an interactive forum aimed at reminding them of their statutory roles and responsibilities as custodians of the nation’s revenue base.
Explaining the purpose of the Commission’s visit, Senior Public Education Officer, Edward N. Blake stated that, though the Commission has received complaints from the public concerning discrepancies in taxation processes, he clarified that the meeting was not investigative in nature, nor intended to intimidate any staff member. Rather, he said, it was in furtherance of the ACC’s preventive mandate through sustained public education and constructive institutional collaboration.
He emphasized that the NRA remains the country’s main breadbasket, playing a critical role in generating revenue for national development. As such, he noted, transparency, professionalism and strict compliance with financial procedures must remain paramount.
He therefore encouraged frank and open discussions, describing the forum as a family conversation intended to collectively identify gaps and take proactive steps to prevent corrupt practices. “We are here to work with you, not against you,” he stressed, urging staff to view the fight against corruption as a shared responsibility necessary to building a better Sierra Leone.
While the atmosphere of the meeting was cordial and interactive, Public Education Officer Patrick Hinga George, reminded participants of key corruption offences under the Anti-Corruption Act 2008 as amended in 2019. These, he said, include conspiracy to commit a corruption offence, misappropriation of public funds and property, abuse of office, abuse of position, and unexplained wealth, among others. He underscored that these offences are not merely administrative breaches but serious criminal violations that attract stringent sanctions under the law.
Elaborating on the penalties, Mr. George stated that any person found guilty by a court of law faces a minimum fine of Fifty Thousand New Leones (NLe 50,000) for each count charge. In addition, a minimum custodial sentence of five years imprisonment may be imposed for every count. He further explained that the court, at its discretion, may order a convicted person to pay the prescribed fine, serve the term of imprisonment, or both. Furthermore, where public funds have been misappropriated, the law mandates restitution of the full amount involved, together with an additional ten percent (10%) interest. Convicted persons may also be barred from holding public office for a minimum period of five years. He emphasized that ignorance of the law does not absolve anyone of liability, urging staff to uphold integrity and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
Mr George also reminded them of the need to be constantly monitoring business people because the Commission’s observation is that most of the GST machines are not being used to collect the required taxes, thus depriving the government of much needed revenue.
Responding on behalf of the NRA staff, the Regional Manager, Madam Jamie Demby described the meeting as timely and appropriate, pledging their unwavering support to the Commission and reaffirming their commitment to upholding accountability, transparency and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
