Only 4 MPs file returns

 By SHIRLYN BELDEN  

ONLY four MPs have submitted their annual returns and election financial reports by the March 15 deadline, according to the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates Commission.

Registrar Dr Alphonse Gelu yesterday described as “not good” the attitudes of MPs who have yet to submit their returns.  

Gelu warned the leaders that the commission would not hesitate to refer them to the Ombudsman Commission for failing to submit their returns.

He said fines have been calculated and notices were given to the MPs as well as political parties that have not submitted their returns. 

“The commission has allowed time for them to submit their returns but this unfortunately has not been adhered to,” Gelu said. 

“Failure to comply with this requirement will have them face the highest penalty of being refered to the Ombudsman Commission. 

“Public money has been used and all are required to account for it. 

“It is not good because some have not complied with those requirements, Gelu said. 

“Otherwise I appreciate the others that have submitted theirs and for their parties.”    

Gelu did not say when the commission would consult the ombudsman.

Under Section 88 and 89 of the organic law, all political parties and MPs are required to give their annual returns and election financial reports. 

The commission calculated the fines for election expenses as K20,000 with K20 default or failure to do so will be referred to the ombudsman and political parties K5000 with K50 default. 

The deadline for all submissions was March 15, 2013.