Publishing audit reports a futile effort, says Auditor General

Publishing audit reports in Maldives is a futile, pointless effort and the State’s public accountability process has failed, said the Auditor General Niyaz Ibrahim, speaking on the public broadcaster Television Maldives (TVM) on Friday.

“This happens because, considering the public accountability process of the State, all the necessary bodies have failed to work as required,” Niyaz said, speaking on Heyambo show on Friday afternoon.

He said the Auditor General is tasked to audit and publish the records of independent institutions and that he is not required to raise charges against those who violate the law.

He admitted that the Auditor General’s Office needs increase the quality and speed of its reports. However, Niyaz said that contrary to public perception, the office does not time its audit reports to damage or favour a specific political objective. The Auditor General's Office is required to adhere to a timetable shared with a parliament committee, he said.

Niyaz Ibrahim also said that he comes from a humble family from Gaafu Dhaalu Thinadhoo and that there is no one in government or public office that can exert undue influence on his work. The Auditor General’s Office is also an independent institution, assured the Auditor General.