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{
    "id": 611836,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/611836/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 229,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Hon. H.K. Njuguna",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 1508,
        "legal_name": "Humphrey Kimani Njuguna",
        "slug": "humphrey-kimani-njuguna"
    },
    "content": "Thank you, hon. Temporary Deputy Speaker. I will be brief. On the outset, I would like to say I support this Bill because of the oversight role that is anticipated and taking into cognizance the oversight duties of Parliament. If we have to play our role in effective financial management of public resources in this country, there is the assumption that we should have back up. This Bill is supposed to give us that oversight back up. I have looked at Section 2 of the Act, which one of the objectives is effectiveness of public spending. What is anticipated in Section 2 is that in this Bill the Auditor-General shall provide prudent and efficient economic oversight in public financial management such that Kenyans will have value for their money, particularly when talking about the taxpayers’ money. When we have an annual budget of Kshs1.8 trillion, it is only fair that there is in place proper financial controls and proper oversight on the use of that money. We know that although this office is supposed to be very important towards ensuring proper financial management, it is an office that has been toothless. As long as this Act is going to provide the necessary teeth in providing oversight in the use of this Kshs1.8 trillion or thereabout, then the Bil needs our support. I have looked at Clauses 29 to 40 where the Bill talks about the audit that the Auditor-General is supposed to carry out in State organs. He is supposed to carry out periodic audit, annual financial audit, performance audit, procurement audit and forensic audit. In my opinion, if these audits are going to be carried out in State organs, then we will have proper oversight. With proper oversight, it is possible to stimulate the necessary economic growth and development in this country. If this office operates as per this Act, then we are headed somewhere. I am made to believe that without this office not much can be achieved in terms of value for money in our annual anticipated Budget. I also take cognisance of the fact that the Auditor-General is supposed to report to Parliament. Once he reports to Parliament, we are supposed to take action upon the recommendations of the Auditor-General. We are even allowed to withhold money for the organs that have been reported to misappropriate funds or organs that are not carrying out duties effectively. Parliament is even authorised to recommend action on officers who have not performed their duties as required. So, for me this Bill is crucial. It is important because it is setting out the necessary parameters towards sound financial management of our resources. Therefore, if it is done then it is possible that even other organs like the Anti-Corruption Authority and our courts will be able to act and act accordingly. In this regard therefore, I support this Bill. Thank you."
}