Govt launches multi-agency task force to tighten audit laws
By Kiprono Keileb, January 22, 2026The government has launched a new multi-agency task force to review and strengthen the legal framework governing internal audits and audit committees in the public sector, in a move aimed at tightening accountability and protecting public resources.
In a statement shared on X on Thursday, January 2, 2026, National Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo announced the official inauguration of the task force.
Kiptoo said that the move comes amid renewed focus on governance, transparency, and proper use of public funds, saying the review will help modernise audit systems and align them with global best practices.
The task force brings together multiple agencies involved in public finance oversight and is expected to play a key role in shaping future audit reforms across government institutions.
Speaking on the launch of the team and his role in setting it up, Kiptoo said the process had now formally begun.
“I presided over the inauguration of the Multi-Agency Task Force to Review the Legal Framework for Internal Audit and Audit Committees,” he wrote.
Kiptoo explained when and why the task force was formed, outlining its mandate and the scope of work it is expected to undertake in the coming months.
“On November 21, 2025, I appointed this Multi-Agency Task Force to review the legal and regulatory framework for public sector internal audit and audit committees in Kenya. Its mandate is to review existing laws, regulations, and guidelines, benchmark Kenya’s framework against international best practice, and propose a modern, harmonised legal and regulatory architecture that strengthens the independence, professionalism, and effectiveness of internal audit and audit committees across the public sector,” the statement reads.
The Treasury PS also gave details on the leadership of the task force and the timeline within which it is expected to deliver its findings and recommendations to the government.
“The Task Force is chaired by the Internal Auditor-General, Sammy Kimunguyi, and is expected to submit its report and recommendations within six months, not later than May 30, 2026,” he wrote.
The review is expected to touch on how audit committees operate within ministries, state departments, and agencies, and how internal auditors can be better protected from interference while carrying out their duties. The government believes the exercise will help close gaps that allow misuse of public funds and weak oversight.
Kiptoo said the formation of the task force signals the government’s commitment to improving how public money is managed and accounted for, especially at a time when Kenyans are demanding greater transparency from public institutions.
“This is an important step in strengthening governance, accountability, and integrity in the management of public resources,” Kiptoo stated.
Once the task force submits its report, the recommendations are expected to guide future legislative and policy changes aimed at improving internal audit systems across the public sector.