Senators want say in hiring of top auditor

The recruitment of the Auditor General and Controller of Budget could open a new battle front between the National Assembly and the Senate.

This after the latter demanded that it be allowed to participate in the process.

Although Article 229 of the Constitution mandates the National Assembly to approve the nomination of the Auditor General, Senate now argues that the auditor also has functions that touch on counties that they oversight and, therefore, should have a role to play.

“There shall be an Auditor General who shall be nominated by the President and, with the approval of the National Assembly, appointed by the President,” reads Article 229.

Article 228 also mandates the National Assembly to approve the nomination of the Controller of Budget.

Senate is now asking President Uhuru Kenyatta to constitute a selection panel to start the recruitment of Edward Ouko’s successor.

Senate County Public Accounts and Investment Committee is worried that a delay in filling the two posts could impact negatively on timely approval of the budget and audit of books.

“Counties will not be able to withdraw funds if they are not approved by the Controller of Budget. Equally, any audit that will be carried out without a substantive Auditor General could be challenged in court,” said committee chairman Moses Kajwang’ (pictured).