The National Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee chaired by nominated MP John Mbadi has called for an increase in funding to the Office of the Auditor-General so it can operate as an independent and well-equipped entity.
Mbadi said the office needed to be enhanced, stressing that it would facilitate efficient execution of the audit cycle and ensure ongoing and sustainable audit operations.
“For years, the Office has suffered from severe underfunding, despite its extensive mandate. It continues to seek support from Parliament and the National Treasury to enhance resources, bolster technical capacity, expand presence in counties, broaden audit scope, and motivate staff,” Mbadi said.
The Office of the Auditor-General is an independent entity established under Article 229 of the Constitution.
Some of its mandates include the auditing and reporting annually on various entities, including the national and county governments, public funds and authorities, courts, commissions, legislative bodies, political parties funded from public coffers, public debt, and other entities financed by public funds.
Additionally, Article 229(6) mandates the Auditor-General to ascertain the lawful and effective utilization of public funds.
Mbadi in his appeal to Parliament, urged his colleagues to support a legislative proposal before the House to establish a dedicated fund for financing the Office of the Auditor-General.
“This initiative is commendable and I urge the House to allocate additional funds to the Office to facilitate more comprehensive forensic audits,” the MP said.
He cited a just concluded special audit conducted by the office of the Auditor-General focusing on the utilization of funds under Article 223, particularly in the areas such as fertilizer subsidies and sports stadiums, at the committee’s request.
“The quality of this audit is impressive and exemplifies the level of scrutiny we should strive for. However, such outcomes can only be achieved with a well-resourced office of the Auditor-General,” Mbadi said.
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