Kathmandu: The Office of Auditor General (OAG) has urged the government to implement the suggestions it furnished periodically so that arrears could be settled on time. During a press conference organized at OAG on Thursday, Auditor General Toyam Raya emphasized the need for all concerned parties to be aware and implement the recommendations outlined in the OAG’s annual report. He stressed the importance of effective auditing and adherence to the law, highlighting that the enforcement of these recommendations is crucial. While the arrears at the local level have been decreasing over the past six years, federal arrears continue to rise.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Auditor General Raya explained that the initial increase in arrears was due to inadequate information and knowledge about existing laws, work procedures, the new auditing system, and a lack of official infrastructure. However, he noted that as knowledge and infrastructure have improved, there has been a reduction in arrears.
The OAG conducts the final auditing of government and public offices across the three tiers of government, as mandated by the constitution and the Auditing Act, 2072. During audits, public institutions are evaluated for consistency, frugality, competence, effectiveness, and relevance.
Last year, the OAG reported that arrears in government offices amounted to a staggering Rs 95.60 billion.