Stakeholder cooperation vital for public accountability, says CAG
ZANZIBAR: THE Office of the Controller and Auditor General (CAG) – Zanzibar has underscored the importance of strong collaboration among stakeholders in promoting accountability, transparency and the proper use of public resources, including funds.
Controller and Auditor General, Dr Othman Abass Ali, made the remarks on Monday this week during a stakeholder orientation training held in Kikungwi village, Unguja South Region.
Dr Othman said the effective execution of the office’s mandate, particularly in ensuring accountability and prudent financial management, cannot be achieved in isolation but requires close cooperation between government institutions, the private sector, civil society organisations, religious institutions, the media and the general public.
He emphasised that such collaboration plays a critical role in strengthening audit systems, enhancing institutional accountability and contributing to national development goals through improved oversight of public funds.
“The success of audit work depends largely on the availability of accurate, timely and transparent information from all stakeholders,” he said.
Dr Othman noted that civil society organisations, faith-based institutions, universities and the media have a unique and strategic role in supporting the work of the CAG, particularly in promoting transparency and safeguarding public finances.
He added that these groups are instrumental in encouraging citizen participation in accountability processes, including monitoring the implementation of audit recommendations and providing feedback that can improve the performance of public institutions.
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The training, he explained, was designed to enhance stakeholders’ understanding of the CAG’s roles, responsibilities and legal mandate, while also shedding light on the public audit process and its importance in governance.
“It is also intended to empower stakeholders to effectively interpret and utilise audit reports and to strengthen citizen engagement through civil society, religious institutions and the media in overseeing public resource management,” he said.
Dr Othman further stressed that the programme aims to build capacity, foster knowledge exchange and enable participants to better understand government operations and critically analyse CAG reports.
“Our office remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that audit findings are effectively used to bring about positive change in the management of public resources,” he added.
He expressed optimism that participants would gain valuable knowledge to actively engage in discussions on public financial management and contribute to strengthening good governance and sustainable development.
Dr Othman also stressed that accountability in the use of public funds is not solely the responsibility of the government or the CAG’s office, but a shared duty that requires the active participation of all stakeholders, including citizens.
