Government proposes constitutional changes to 'safeguard' Auditor General post
Amendments will ensure continuity
The government has tabled constitutional amendments that would allow the Auditor General and Deputy Auditor General to remain in office if Parliament fails to secure a two-thirds majority to replace them.
Under the proposed changes, the office holders would continue in their roles until the required majority is obtained, bringing the positions in line with other constitutional appointments.
In a statement the government said the amendments are intended to “safeguard” the functioning and legal certainty of the Office of the Auditor General which plays a central role in scrutinising operations of the state.
It added that the changes would also ensure continuity in key institutional roles, including the Auditor General’s participation in important committees, particularly those related to judicial appointments.
The bill reflects proposals first put forward last year and is set to be discussed in parliament on Wednesday with the agreement of the Opposition.