Wetang’ula pushes for stronger auditor general’s oversight amid transparency debate
By Ndiritu Wanjiru, April 29, 2026National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called for strengthened oversight institutions across Africa, emphasising the central role of parliamentary committees in safeguarding public resources and promoting accountability.
Taking it to his X handle on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, Wetang’ula noted that he made the remarks to the African Organisation of Public Accounts Committees (AFROPAC) delegation during a visit to the Parliament Buildings. He said that the role of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in scrutinising government expenditure is crucial for ensuring accountability. He said oversight of public expenditure is vital to transparency and the prevention of financial irregularities.
“In their ongoing efforts to promote good governance, accountability, and transparency in public resource management—and recognising the importance of strengthened parliamentary oversight to curb the loss of public funds—I urged the AFROPAC leadership to champion the reinforcement of the Office of the Auditor General across their respective jurisdictions to enhance its effectiveness,” Wetang’ula stated.
“I also emphasised that timely audits are critical in enabling parliaments worldwide to address development imbalances more effectively,” he added.
Wetang’ula, who received the AFROPAC delegation as part of efforts to foster co-operation between African parliaments to promote good governance and effective public financial management, called on the continental organisation to play a key role in enhancing the capacity and independence of the Office of the Auditor General in member states.
Wetang’ula said strengthening the Office of the Auditor General is vital in improving the audit process and in the scrutiny of public spending. He emphasised that robust audit institutions play a vital role in keeping an eye on public expenditure and preventing corruption and malfeasance.
The Speaker also emphasised the need for timely audits, stating that audit delays hinder parliamentary oversight. He noted that timely audit reports help legislatures to quickly address any development imbalances, intending to ensure a fair allocation and utilisation of resources.
The AFROPAC delegation was led by Chairperson Medard Lubega Ssegona, Deputy Chairperson Abena Osei-Asare, Secretary General Steven Baba Malondera, Ranking Member Samuel Atta Mills, and Deputy Secretary-General Tindi Mwale, among other African legislative leaders.
The congress is part of efforts by African parliaments to boost oversight and accountability of public finance management as governments work to enhance service delivery and promote growth.
Senate PAC ends standoff with governors
Senators have confirmed that governors have called off the boycott of the oversight sessions following a negotiated truce reached after weeks of closed-door talks between the two sides.
The breakthrough, announced on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, during Senate proceedings, clears the way for governors to resume appearances before key committees, ending a standoff that had disrupted accountability processes.
“Yesterday, when we met as a leadership with the CPAC and CPIC, we made it clear to the Council that while we hear what you are saying, withdraw first the demands you had made which require non-appearance before the CPAC before the matter is resolved,” he said.