Significant delays and pending cases in public sector audits have been identified in the Special Report released by the Audit Office on 12 March 2026. The report reviews the financial statements of municipalities, community councils, school boards and other public entities, highlighting gaps in submission and auditing processes.
According to the Audit Office, delays in submitting and auditing financial statements undermine the reliability of financial information and limit authorities’ ability to implement corrective measures in a timely manner.
Timely submission critical
The report stresses that timely submission of financial statements is a core obligation for organisations managing public funds, directly linked to transparency and accountability. This obligation is mandated under Article 109 of the 2014 Fiscal Responsibility and Fiscal Framework Law, which sets out auditing procedures for General Government entities and local authorities.
Pending and missing audits
The report identifies three main categories of issues: financial statements awaiting audit, statements not submitted at all to the Audit Office, and cases where audits were not completed by private auditors. These findings reveal structural weaknesses in the oversight of public sector financial data.
New measures to accelerate audits
To address delays, a new procedure was introduced in 2025, allowing audits to be assigned to private auditors following recommendations from the Auditor General. This aims to speed up reviews and reduce the backlog accumulated in previous years.
Transparency and good governance
In its introduction, the Audit Office highlights that transparency and accountability of organisations managing public funds are fundamental to good governance. Timely completion of financial audits is crucial to protect the public interest and strengthen citizens’ trust in institutions.
Also read: Employee of mobile cameras attacked with spray; vehicle damaged
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
