HARARE, National Assembly Speaker Jacob Mudenda says Parliament is firmly behind the
re-appointment of Zimbabwe's Auditor-General, Mildred Chari, as her office is critical in assisting the legislature keep the government accountable.
Chiri, well known for her critique and disclosures of financial irregularities in government and local authorities, was
unceremoniously dismissed from her job last year in a decision which riled the nation across the political divide.
Legislators later blocked the appointment of Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) chief executive officer Mike Ndudzo, who the government had proposed to replace Chiri, saying he was not suitable for the job as he had "a history of failure".
Finance and Economic Development Minister Patrick Chinamasa said late last year that the government had re-engaged Chiri for a fresh term.
Speaker Mudenda told legislators and other stakeholders at a post-2018 National Budget meeting here Monday that the Auditor-General's Office was key in keeping government clean.
The re-appointment of the AG will boost investor confidence, locally and internationally, he added. A clean government attracts business and capital.
He said Parliament would ensure that it followed up on issues previously highlighted by Chiri and make recommendations to the government to ensure they were implemented.
Parliament must ensure total compliance with financial reporting obligations as outlined in the Public Management Act and Audit Office Act. This will undoubtedly result in improved accountability, transparency and fiscal discipline, Mudenda said.
Zimbabwe's new administration led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa has promised to better manage the country and government finances and ensure they are utilised for the development of the country to improve the well-being of citizens.
Source: NAM NEWS NETWORK
