Which individual is responsible for keeping accurate records of public funds or property?

The accountable officer is the individual designated to maintain accurate records of public funds and property. This role is crucial within any organization that manages public resources, as the accountable officer ensures proper documentation, tracking, and safeguarding of all financial transactions and assets. They are tasked with ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and organizational policies, thereby promoting accountability and transparency.

The functions of the accountable officer include overseeing financial activities, ensuring accurate financial reporting, and identifying any discrepancies in records related to funds or property. This position requires a thorough understanding of finance and asset management principles, making the accountable officer central to maintaining the integrity of financial operations.

In contrast, the other roles, although important, do not specifically focus solely on the responsibility of keeping accurate records of public funds and property. The responsible party might refer to an individual who has duty over certain operations, but not necessarily the financial record-keeping. The supply officer usually manages inventory and logistics rather than direct financial records. Similarly, the finance officer may supervise financial operations, but their scope may encompass broader responsibilities that include but are not limited to record-keeping. Thus, it is the accountable officer who bears the primary responsibility for ensuring that records related to public funds and property remain accurate and reliable.