By Dorothy Musyoka
In a significant move to bolster accountability and transparency in the management of public funds, the National Assembly has approved the appointment of Pannell Kerr Forster (PKF) Kenya Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) as the external auditor for the Office of the Auditor-General (OAG).
The firm will be responsible for auditing the OAG’s accounts for the financial years 2022/2023, 2023/2024, and 2024/2025, including the financial statements for the Staff Mortgage and Car Loan Scheme.
“The National Assembly has approved the appointment of PKF Kenya LLP as the external auditor for the Office of the Auditor-General (OAG). The firm will audit the OAG’s accounts for the financial years 2022/2023, 2023/2024, and 2024/2025, as well as the financial statements for the Staff Mortgage and Car Loan Scheme,” stated the National Assembly.
This decision comes on the heels of a strong recommendation by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which has been a key advocate for increased funding and support for the OAG over the past five years.
The PAC, in its report, underscored the essential role of the Auditor-General’s office in ensuring that public funds are used efficiently and effectively.
The Committee emphasized that the OAG’s reports have been invaluable in aiding the National Assembly’s oversight functions.
“In its Report, the Committee emphasized the critical role of the OAG in auditing the use of public funds, noting that its reports have been invaluable to the National Assembly oversight functions,” added the National Assembly.
Speaking while moving the motion for the approval, Hon. Tindi Mwale, the Vice Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee, highlighted the Committee’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Office of the Auditor-General.
“The Public Accounts Committee has been at the forefront of advocating for funding for the Office of the Auditor-General,” Hon. Mwale stated, reaffirming the PAC’s dedication to enhancing the capacity of the OAG to carry out its critical mandate.
In addition Hon.Tindi also highlighted the importance of external audit in enhancing transparency and accountability in management of public resources.
On his part Wilberforce Ounda emphasized the importance for selecting a firm with highest professional standards.
The appointment of PKF Kenya LLP is expected to further strengthen the OAG’s ability to provide comprehensive audits and ensure greater transparency in the management of public resources.
This move aligns with the broader objective of promoting good governance and accountability across all levels of government.