Deputy Leader Hon. Aaron Demands Overhaul of UADF Payment Framework

By  Emmanuel S Conteh

On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, a high-stakes session of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) unfolded at Parliament’s Administrative Building on Tower Hill, Freetown. The spotlight was firmly on Hon. Aaron, Deputy Leader and a senior member of the Committee, as he delivered a sharp critique of the Universal Access Development Fund’s (UADF) payment practices.

Hon. Aaron expressed deep concern over the Fund’s reliance on deferred or instalment-based payment methods, especially during the 2020 financial year a period that, he noted, faced no significant liquidity constraints. He questioned the legitimacy and prudence of such arrangements, pointing out a troubling lack of legal authority supporting the postponement of payments or the circumvention of tax obligations.

Stressing the importance of timely tax compliance, Hon. Aaron argued that delays in financial commitments undermine government operations and development efforts. He was particularly critical of Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), contending that these financially robust companies should have no difficulty fulfilling their financial responsibilities without resorting to instalment plans.

Calling for systemic reform, Hon. Aaron urged the Committee to recommend a complete end to staggered payment practices. He maintained that decisive regulatory measures mandating prompt payment are essential to enhancing fiscal discipline, accountability, and the effective delivery of public services.