Melo News | Lusaka, Zambia – The acting Auditor General, Dr. Ron Mwambwa, has addressed recent media allegations suggesting that the Auditor General’s Reports for the financial year ended 31st December 2023 deliberately excluded audit findings related to the procurement of ambulances due to external instructions.
Dr. Mwambwa has firmly stated that these claims are unfounded and aims to clarify the matter.
Dr. Mwambwa explained that the audit of local authorities, including the Constituency Development Funds (CDF) for the financial year ended 31st December 2023, focused on funds allocated to 156 constituencies in 2023.
“It must be noted that the procurement contract for the 156 ambulances was signed on 10th May 2024 using CDF funds from the 2024 budget. As such, this transaction falls outside the scope of the Auditor General’s Reports for the financial year ended 31st December 2023.
The procurement of the 156 ambulances in 2024 will therefore be covered in the 2025 audit of financial statements for the year ending 31st December 2024,” Dr. Mwambwa clarified.
He urged the public to refrain from making unsubstantiated claims that could undermine trust in the Office of the Auditor General (OAG). Such misinformation not only misleads the public but also erodes confidence in an institution dedicated to transparency, accountability, and good governance.
Dr. Mwambwa emphasized that the OAG practices an open-door policy and encourages anyone with questions or concerns about the Auditor General’s reports to visit the Office directly for accurate information.
He reiterated the OAG’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of accountability and transparency, and to providing the public with accurate, timely, and comprehensive reports on government activities.
This statement was issued by Ellen M. Chikale (Ms.), Head of Public Relations.
