The Acting Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy to Libya, Jeremy Brent affirmed the crucial role of the Audit Bureau’s technocratic integrity and independence.
He stressed its importance in enhancing transparent revenue administration, according to international standards.
Brent stated that these factors “remain essential for the benefit and prosperity of the Libyan people.”
He highlighted the significance of his meeting on Thursday, with the Head of the Audit Bureau, Khalid Shakshak.
Brent expressed pride in the partnership with the Audit Bureau through technical assistance provided by the US Agency for International Development (USAID).
Last week, the US Special Envoy to Libya, Richard Norland announced the United States’ willingness to aid the residents of Derna, by collaborating with the World Bank and the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).
In a statement, Norland expressed his engagement in the discussions about rebuilding Derna, and other flood-damaged regions. These talks involved Al-Siddiq Al-Kabir, Governor of the Central Bank of Libya (CBL), and Georgette Gagnon from UNSMIL.
Emphasizing effective resource allocation, Norland, alongside Brent, conveyed their encouragement to ensure that reconstruction funds are distributed in a transparent, and coordinated manner. This approach aims to address the needs of Derna’s residents, and other affected communities.
Norland affirmed that the US, in collaboration with UNSMIL, the World Bank, and other partners, is prepared to offer assistance.
Particularly in 2023, Libya witnessed significant economic collapses, exacerbated under the rule of the expired-mandated Government of National Unity. This government, despite receiving widespread support upon taking power, failed in achieving its primary objectives, including conducting elections and implementing urgent economic reforms to improve the Libyan people’s conditions.
The Libyan Audit Bureau, the country’s leading financial oversight body, reported numerous violations in its latest report. These included embezzlement of public funds through fictitious contracts, expansion in contract awards for supplies, and millions spent on luxury car purchases. Furthermore, the report detailed the stay of non-government-related individuals in hotels abroad at public expense.
The report also highlighted collusion with the state’s adversaries in disputes and arbitration cases, actions bordering on treason against the Libyan state. It revealed public fund wastage through unnecessary supply contracts and direct appointment processes, alongside inflated contracts for catering, travel, and accommodation expenses.
Moreover, it exposed the payment of phantom salaries through forged national IDs and embezzlement from funds meant for treating wounded and sick Libyans abroad. The report also disclosed Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbaiba’s approval of purchasing luxury vehicles for ministers and government officials, amounting to 40.5 million Libyan dinars.
Additionally, the Audit Bureau revealed deviations in the public employment sector under the Government of National Unity, including random appointments, administrative negligence, favouritism, and decreased productivity. Official documents disclosed corruption involving ministers and officials, including currency and precious metal smuggling.