The CSCCA reminds Parliament of its authority regarding the discharge of former ministers

The Superior Court of Auditors and Administrative Disputes (CSCCA) published a notice on Thursday, November 12, in which it emphasizes that the discharge agreement for former Prime Ministers and ministers falls exclusively under the legislative branch. The institution reiterates its position by basing it on specific constitutional and legal articles.

The notice, addressed to the former ministers concerned, insists on respect for the competencies established by the Constitution and the laws. The CSCCA states that it can only exercise the powers expressly granted to it. It refers in particular to Article 233 of the country's amended Constitution, which creates a parliamentary commission tasked with examining the management of ministers and producing a report upon which both legislative chambers vote to grant or refuse discharge.

Furthermore, Article 89 of the law of May 4, 2016, confirms that the control of public spending falls entirely under the Parliament. The CSCCA also cites Article 205 of the Senate's internal regulations, which specifies the procedures for receiving and examining the Court's report.

The CSCCA does, however, recognize one exception: in the case of former officials declared de facto accountants of public funds, they become subject to its jurisdiction. In this specific framework, it can judge their accounts in accordance with the law.

Through this notice, the CSCCA recalls the strict limits of its powers and calls on the former Prime Ministers and ministers concerned to understand these rules and act with a sense of responsibility.