The Office of the Auditor General conducts audits in accordance with the International Standards of Supreme Audit Institutions. ISSAI 12 highlights the Values and Benefits of Supreme Audit Institutions:
- Independence: SAIs are independent entities, which means they are free from undue influence or interference. This independence is crucial for ensuring unbiased assessments.
- Transparency and Accountability: SAIs promote transparency and accountability in the use of public resources. They hold government entities responsible for their actions and expenditures.
- Objectivity and Impartiality: SAIs conduct their audits objectively and impartially, without favoring any particular party. This ensures that audits are fair and trustworthy.
- Professionalism and Competence: SAIs employ skilled professionals with expertise in auditing and related fields. This expertise is essential for conducting thorough and accurate assessments.
- Ethical Standards: SAIs adhere to high ethical standards in their operations. This includes principles like integrity, confidentiality, and avoidance of conflicts of interest.
- Public Interest Focus: SAIs serve the public interest by ensuring that public funds are used efficiently and effectively. They play a critical role in safeguarding the interests of citizens.
- Legal Compliance Assurance: SAIs verify compliance with laws and regulations, which helps maintain the rule of law and ensures that public entities operate within legal boundaries.
- Economic, Efficient, and Effective Use of Resources: SAIs assess whether public resources are utilized in a manner that is economically efficient and achieves desired outcomes effectively.
- Enhancing Governance and Trust: Through their audits, SAIs contribute to improved governance processes. Their work helps build trust between citizens and the government.
- Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing: SAIs often engage in capacity-building activities to enhance the skills and capabilities of auditors. They also promote knowledge-sharing within the auditing community.
- Adaptability to Changing Contexts: SAIs are adaptable and responsive to evolving circumstances and challenges. They adjust their audit approaches to address emerging issues in the public sector.
These values and benefits collectively reinforce the pivotal role that Supreme Audit Institutions play in ensuring fiscal responsibility, promoting good governance, and upholding the interests of the public.
