By: Iris Aminata Bangura
Mrs. Lara Taylor-Pearce, the former Auditor General of Sierra Leone, has addressed her suspension from office in November 2021, breaking her silence on recent allegations. In a detailed statement, Taylor-Pearce reaffirmed her commitment to professional integrity and accountability throughout her career.
Taylor-Pearce began her career at KPMG Peat Marwick in September 1991 and attained qualifications as a Chartered Certified Accountant in 1998. She later became a fellow of both the ACCA and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sierra Leone, and holds an MBA in Leadership and Sustainability from the University of Cumbria, UK.
Appointed Auditor General in November 2011, Taylor-Pearce underscored her dedication to ensuring transparency and safeguarding public funds. She emphasized her adherence to international audit standards and highlighted her leadership roles within global audit bodies, including Chair of the AFROSAI-E Governing Board and Vice Chair of the INTOSAI Development Initiative.
Addressing her suspension, Taylor-Pearce defended her record, noting it was the first instance of interference in her ten-year tenure. She cited constitutional protections for the Auditor General’s independence under Section 119(6) of the Sierra Leone Constitution and Section 15 of the Audit Service Act 2014.
Expressing frustration over the Tribunal’s proceedings, Taylor-Pearce criticized its focus on third-party verification issues rather than addressing more serious allegations. Despite submitting a comprehensive response, she lamented the lack of opportunity to publicly defend herself during the Tribunal hearings.
Denying allegations of leaking information, Taylor-Pearce described them as “outrageous” and asserted she has never knowingly provided audit information to any person or organization. She called for accountability for those spreading false information.
In conclusion, Taylor-Pearce assured the public of the Audit Service’s continued professionalism and integrity, managed by a Deputy Auditor General with clear lines of responsibility and communication. Her statement stands as a robust defense of her career amid ongoing scrutiny and public interest in the case.
