The National Assembly has approved the appointment of PKF Kenya LLP as the external auditor for the Office of the Auditor-General (OAG) for the financial years 2022/2023 through 2024/2025. The appointment includes auditing the financial statements of the OAG’s Staff Mortgage and Car Loan Scheme.
The decision, following a recommendation from the influential Public Accounts Committee (PAC), underscores the critical role of the Office of the Auditor-General in overseeing the use of public funds. The PAC, which has consistently advocated for increased funding for the OAG over the last five years, played a key role in this latest appointment. The committee’s report emphasized that the Auditor-General’s reports have been invaluable to the National Assembly’s oversight functions, providing crucial insights into government expenditure and resource management.
In a session marked by unanimous support, PAC Vice Chairperson, Hon. Tindi Mwale, moved the motion, expressing the committee’s unwavering commitment to bolstering the operations of the OAG. “The Public Accounts Committee has been at the forefront of advocating for funding for the Office of the Auditor-General,” Hon. Mwale stated, highlighting the significance of external audits in maintaining public trust in government institutions.
Hon. Mwale further emphasized the importance of PKF Kenya LLP’s role, noting that an independent audit is crucial in upholding transparency and accountability.
The Auditor-General’s office, tasked with auditing the government’s financial statements and reports, faces a considerable workload due to the vast scope of its responsibilities.
The approval of PKF Kenya LLP’s appointment is aligned with the constitutional and legal frameworks governing public audits in Kenya. Specifically, it complies with Article 226(4) of the Constitution and Section 43 of the Public Audit Act, which mandate the Auditor-General to appoint external auditors where necessary.
The external audit will not only cover the OAG’s financial statements but will also extend to the Staff Mortgage and Car Loan Scheme, ensuring comprehensive oversight of all financial activities within the Auditor-General’s purview.
