Monrovia, Liberia — A recent wave of public discourse has emerged following the release of the General Auditing Commission’s (GAC) 2022 and 2023 audit reports on the National Social Security and Welfare Corporation (NASSCORP). At the heart of the conversation is the term “unqualified opinion”—a technical auditing phrase that has been misinterpreted by some media outlets, leading to confusion and controversy.
What the Audit Really Says
The GAC’s audit, signed by Auditor General P. Garswa Jackson, issued an unqualified opinion on NASSCORP’s financial statements for both 2022 and 2023. In auditing terminology, this is the highest level of assurance an auditor can provide. It means the financial records are presented fairly, in accordance with applicable accounting standards, and free from material misstatements or fraud.
Contrary to some media reports that suggested wrongdoing, the unqualified opinion is not a negative finding. Rather, it affirms that NASSCORP’s financial management meets professional standards of transparency and accountability.
Media Misinterpretation and Public Reaction
Several news outlets, including some online platforms, mischaracterized the audit’s findings, implying that the term “unqualified” indicated a flaw or irregularity. This sparked public concern and prompted swift responses from civil society and financial experts.
The Civil Society Council of Liberia, led by Chairman Mark Mula, condemned the misreporting as “reckless and deceptive journalism.” Mula emphasized that the audit actually commended NASSCORP’s financial transparency and warned that misinterpretation of technical terms could erode public trust in institutions striving for reform.
“An unqualified report is a confirmation of sound financial management, not a charge of corruption,” Mula stated.
NASSCORP’s Track Record and Institutional Response
NASSCORP has consistently emphasized its commitment to financial integrity. Over the past several years, the institution has implemented reforms aimed at improving internal controls, enhancing compliance with government financial reporting standards, and ensuring the responsible management of social security funds.
In response to the media confusion, NASSCORP reiterated its openness to scrutiny and welcomed the audit’s findings as validation of its efforts. The institution also called for greater public education on financial reporting to prevent similar misunderstandings in the future.
🧭 The Role of Responsible Journalism
This episode has reignited discussions about the role of the media in reporting on complex financial and governance issues. While the press plays a critical role in holding institutions accountable, experts argue that accuracy and context are essential—especially when interpreting technical documents like audit reports.
Media analysts and civil society leaders are urging journalists to consult financial experts when covering such topics and to prioritize clarity and factual accuracy over sensationalism.
Looking Ahead
As Liberia continues to strengthen its public financial management systems, the NASSCORP audit serves as both a benchmark for institutional accountability and a case study in the importance of informed reporting. The incident underscores the need for ongoing dialogue between auditors, institutions, the media, and the public to foster transparency, trust, and shared understanding.
In a democracy, facts matter—and so does the way they’re communicated.
