The National Assembly Committee on Cohesion and Equal Opportunities has announced plans to investigate alleged malpractices in the Office of the Auditor General (OAG). This inquiry comes in response to a petition by staff members citing issues such as corruption, abuse of office, tribalism, favoritism, and mismanagement within the institution.
Serious Allegations Raised
The petitioners, some of whom submitted their grievances anonymously, have painted a grim picture of the working conditions in the OAG. They allege that malpractice has not only disrupted cohesiveness but also created a hostile work environment, adversely affecting employees’ mental well-being.
One of the most alarming claims is that over 200 staff members reportedly hold fraudulent qualifications, including forged Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certificates, without any corrective action being taken. These accusations have prompted the committee to forward the petition to the Public Petitions Committee for further scrutiny.
Committee’s Determination
During a meeting chaired by Kasipul MP Charles Were, committee members emphasized the gravity of the allegations while underscoring the importance of a thorough investigation. “The Committee has received a petition from staff protesting alleged malpractice in the Auditor General’s office and seeking our intervention,” said Were. He stressed that the inquiry was necessary to determine the veracity of these claims and address them appropriately.
The inquiry, according to committee members, will serve two purposes: to uncover potential misconduct within the OAG and to clear any unsubstantiated allegations that could tarnish the institution’s reputation.
Balancing Objectivity and Legal Standards
Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge highlighted a critical procedural concern regarding anonymous complaints. “The law is very clear. Petitions or complaints delivered to the National Assembly must contain identifiable details of the authors. Anonymous submissions lack credibility,” he cautioned. Mathenge’s remarks underline the importance of adhering to legal frameworks to ensure that the inquiry is not undermined by unverifiable claims.
Kamukunji MP Abdi Yusuf Hassan echoed the sentiment, urging the committee to exercise caution in its approach. He pointed out that leadership transitions within public offices often give rise to internal disputes, which could lead to exaggerated or unfounded allegations. “The Committee needs to approach this matter carefully and objectively. Mishandling it could inadvertently undermine the Office of the Auditor General,” Hassan warned.
Ensuring Fairness and Integrity
Shinyalu MP Fred Ikana emphasized that a comprehensive inquiry was essential for uncovering the truth and restoring trust in the OAG. “The Committee has the capacity to conduct a thorough inquiry to address these allegations and ensure the smooth running of the Auditor General’s office,” said Ikana.
Mandera West MP Adan Haji added that the investigation could serve as a litmus test for the OAG’s internal governance. “This inquiry will either expose misconduct in the OAG or clear the office of any wrongdoing,” Haji stated.
Upholding Professionalism
The decision to launch the investigation underscores Parliament’s commitment to upholding the integrity and professionalism of public institutions. By ensuring transparency and fairness in addressing these allegations, the committee aims to safeguard the OAG’s critical role in promoting accountability in government operations.
This inquiry represents a significant step towards addressing systemic challenges that may hinder the efficient functioning of the OAG. It also sets a precedent for addressing grievances within public offices in a manner that prioritizes truth, fairness, and institutional integrity.
As the inquiry unfolds, the focus will remain on conducting an impartial investigation that not only resolves the allegations but also strengthens trust in public institutions.
