UK acknowledges Forensic Audit report dalay
The British Government has acknowledged the delay in the release of the Forensic Audit report on February 14, 2014 as expected, saying there are certain finalizing procedures auditors need to undertake.
British High Commissioner to Malawi, Michael Nevin, whose Government is funding the forensic audit, made the acknowledgement in a statement released dated Friday, February 14, 2014.
“We have noted some comments raising concerns about the credibility of the forensic audit report because it has not been made public on 14 February.
“The British Government is funding the forensic audit and has been kept informed of progress. While a draft is complete, there are certain finalising procedures that the auditors need to go through as standard practice,” explains Nevin.
He added that the Government of Malawi had given assurances that the report would be independent and not subject to political manipulation and that the British Government welcomed that commitment.
“While the specific detail of suspect transactions will need to be kept confidential because of the prospect of legal action, the Government of Malawi has promised to publish the main report as received in its final form, which we support.
“Additionally, as an extra surety, the British Government will also receive copies direct from the auditors. The focus should then be on the necessary actions that the authorities will need to take in response to the report,” concludes Nevin in his statement.
The forensic report is one of government’s efforts in addressing the weaknesses in financial management systems in the country following the looting of public resources at Capital Hill, now termed Cashgate.
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