TIB objects, as draft bill not accessible to stakeholders

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) on Thursday expressed concern over alleged secrecy surrounding the draft of the Public Audit Bill 2024.

The anti-corruption watchdog urged the government in a statement to make it public immediately to gather feedback from relevant stakeholders and experts.

TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman said, "The long-awaited draft of the Public Audit Bill 2024 has been limited to input from a ministry, departments, offices, agencies, and the World Bank. But is financial oversight and auditing solely the concern of the government and an influential international financial institution? This bill will serve as a legal tool to ensure transparency in the use of public funds. Therefore, excluding civil society and relevant stakeholders from the consultation process is unacceptable. We urge the immediate public release of the draft to gather feedback from all relevant stakeholders and experts in the public interest."

Zaman said, "We have long been advocating for the strengthening of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) as a constitutional institution. Based on our research findings, we have made specific recommendations, including the approval of the proposed audit law, organisational structure, and appointment rules, following discussions with relevant stakeholders."

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