Expert highlights OAG’s role in accountability; public desires greater impact

By Thembelihle Mhlanga

In a recent online engagement facilitated by Community Podium, an accountability expert delved into the critical oversight role played by the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) on the government and state entities’ accounts in Zimbabwe. The guest presenter, Zibusiso J. Dube from Accountability Lab Zimbabwe, provided a comprehensive analysis of the OAG’s mandate and performance, drawing attention to a concerning gap in the enforcement of the office’s findings.

According to Dube, the OAG in Zimbabwe executes its job and mandate exceptionally well, uncovering various issues and irregularities in the government’s financial management. “The OAG’s reports have adequately flagged limitations and challenges in resource allocation, expenditure management, performance management, and given substantive corrective direction for local authorities, ministries and other government agencies,” he recounted, adding that “It’s a pity that some entities simply don’t submit their financial statements” and sharing how the current report says 73 local authorities haven’t submitted 2023 reports, thus limiting the effectiveness of the OAG.

During the discussion, Dube advised the public that they should be concerned about the OAG’s report, sharing that part of the reason the findings are ignored is because there is no pressure from the society for the recommendations tabled in the report to be implemented.

“I believe all taxpayers and users of public services must be concerned about the Auditor General’s report. If you have been to a hospital and received poor service delivery, or you travel on potholed roads, or you are worried about the status of education and access to clean water and sanitation, then you must be interested in the Auditor General’s report and other accountability processes,” he advised.

However, an increasing worry expressed by the participants of the discussion was the lack of implementation of recommendations and lack of criminalization by the OAG in cases where there is stark evidence of mishandling of public funds. The sentiment was echoed by one participant, who wished to remain anonymous, stating, “The lack of enforcement and accountability for the OAG’s findings is a major concern. It undermines the credibility of the institution and leaves the public without recourse for the misuse of public funds.”

Another participant emphasized the disconnection between the OAG’s diligent work and the lack of meaningful consequences, saying, “The Auditor General’s reports are comprehensive, but they often get swept under the rug without any real action taken against those responsible for the identified wrongdoings.”

Dube stressed that the reports are based on auditing of financial statements and documents and checking supporting documents, highlighting that their role ends at giving an adverse opinion as opposed to going to the extent of pointing out corruption. He shared that for the flow of accountability processes to be complete, there is need for other agencies to act advised on the findings of the OAG report.

“We need other agencies of government such as the ZACC, etc, to play their role. The OAG does stand before parliament, so parliamentarians through their parliamentary committees also have an opportunity to take these issues further”, Dube said, further sharing that Zimbabwe has enough legislature and institutions and what needs to be advocated for is the political will to adhere to the rule of law.

The online engagement revealed the public’s wish to have legal mechanisms in place to enhance the effectiveness of the Auditor General’s office to enforce its recommendations and even point out cases for criminalization.

“The Auditor General plays a crucial role in safeguarding the public’s trust and ensuring the responsible use of taxpayer money,” said one participant. “But if their findings are not met with meaningful consequences, then the entire system of financial oversight is rendered ineffective.”

Dube emphasized the importance of public awareness and engagement in holding the government accountable. “The citizens of Zimbabwe deserve to know how their tax dollars are being spent, and they should have the power to demand action when irregularities are uncovered,” he said.

The online discussion also touched on the need for stronger whistleblower protections and independent investigations to complement the AG’s work. “Without these safeguards, individuals who come forward with information may be reluctant to do so, fearing retaliation or inaction,” said another participant.

As the debate continues, experts and stakeholders in Zimbabwe are calling for a comprehensive review of the legal framework governing the Auditor General’s office. They believe that by addressing the enforcement gap and empowering the OAG to hold offenders accountable, the country can take a significant step towards enhancing transparency, good governance, and the proper management of public resources.