TIB questions inaccessibility of Public Audit Bill 2024 draft

Expressing concern over the alleged secrecy surrounding the draft of the Public Audit Bill 2024, Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) on Thursday called on the government to make it public immediately.

In a statement, the TIB made the call, also saying that the draft bill be made accessible to all, allowing feedback from 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.”

Iftekharuzzaman noted, “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, organizational structure, and appointment rules, following discussions with relevant stakeholders.”