New auditor general to release first report next week

Former Auditor General Edward Ouko greets his successor Nancy Gathungu before handing over instruments of power on July 23, 2020, at Anniversary Towers in Nairobi. The incoming Auditor General will clear the audit backlog as soon as possible so that entities can call their annual general meetings. [Edward Kiplimo, Standard]

Auditor General Nancy Gathungu says she will start releasing audited reports next week in a bid to clear a huge backlog in her office.

Ms Gathungu, who was sworn in last week to replace Edward Ouko whose eight-year term expired in August 2019, emphasised the importance of the reports in enhancing public accountability.

“I have met with my team and we have prioritised the clearing of a backlog of reports,” she said during a handover ceremony in Nairobi yesterday.

“In this regard, I am delighted to inform you that we shall start releasing reports on listed entities to government ministries and State departments by Friday next week, subject to the laid down Covid-19 health guidelines,” she said.

Gathungu worked under Ouko as the Director of Audit since February 2014.

While handing over the office, Ouko praised his successor’s professionalism in executing her duties.

“Don’t undo the past in a bid to make a big shoe, chart your own path guided by your strategy and vision. I am confident that you will deliver on your mandate, remember the independence of this office is yours to lose,” he said.

The office of the auditor general has remained vacant for almost a year following a long process of recruiting a new occupant.

Gathungu was approved by parliament on July 15.