OAG resumes Auditor General Bill consultations
BY TONY IROGA
The Office of the Auditor General (OAG) has resumed nationwide consultations on the proposed Auditor General Bill 2026 after Cabinet approved the continuation of the process under the Government of Reform, Empowerment, Accountability and Transformation (GREAT).
The latest consultation was held this week with the newly formed Public Accounts Committee (PAC) at the Paul Tovua Complex near the National Parliament.
According to statement from OAG, the consultations on the draft bill began earlier this year and seeks views on legislation that aim strengthen the independence, structure and autonomy of the Office of the Auditor General while improving accountability in the management of public finances.
The OAG has already consulted government ministries, state-owned enterprises, the private sector, non-government organisations, civil society groups, integrity institutions and other stakeholders.
Auditor General David Teika Dennis said it is important for consultations to continue so the proposed legislation can be finalised and presented to Parliament.
“The bill will help ensure the Office of the Auditor General is fully independent and properly resourced to audit and report on public finances and the performance of the public sector,” Mr Dennis said.
He said the current law governing the office is outdated and needs to be replaced with legislation that allows the OAG to carry out its work effectively and independently.
He also acknowledged Australia’s support in helping resume the consultation process.
Public Accounts Committee Chairman and MP for North Guadalcanal, Dr Paul Popora Bosawai, threw his support behind the proposed legislation, saying it will strengthen transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.
“The Office of the Auditor General needs to be independent to do its job effectively, and the public has a right to know how public funds are managed and spent,” Dr Bosawai said.
He said everyone entrusted with public funds should be held accountable under the law, adding that the bill deserves support from all Members of Parliament.
Consultations with the wider public will continue before the bill is tabled in the National Parliament for debate and consideration.
Photo credit: OAG media
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