ABG Audit Committee established to strengthen governance and accountability
The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) marked a significant milestone today with the swearing-in of the new members of the ABG Audit Committee in Buka, marking a crucial step in improving the mechanisms for good governance and accountability of public funds.
The ABG Minister for Treasury and Finance Hon. Robin Wilson emphasized the importance of the committee, stating, "This is an important body that we are going to set up today. If we see something is not moving, let’s talk to each other while respecting the demarcations we have. At the end of the day, we are all accountable to the people. We, leaders are accountable to the people through the elections, and officers are accountable to the leaders through your reporting."
The Bougainville Executive Council had endorsed the establishment of the ABG Audit Committee last month, consistent with section 4 of the Bougainville Public Finance and Management Act 2014.
Minister Wilson said that this decision reflects ABG's ongoing commitment to improving governance structures and practices to ensure the efficient and effective use of public resources.
He further clarified that the Audit Committee membership is independent from the ABG Department of Treasury and Finance, and does not include membership from his Department, ensuring its independence and ability to operate without fear or favor.
He said the ABG's commitment to transparency is further demonstrated by its approach to selecting committee members, where the ABG had sought recommendations from the Bougainville Certified Practicing Accountants Chapter, maintaining independence even in the selection process.
ABG Deputy Chief Secretary Operations Esther Usurup-Harou, in her remarks reiterated that the role of the Audit Committee is pivotal and serves as the guardian of trust, ensuring that organizations operate ethically, efficiently, and effectively.
The key roles of the ABG Audit Committee will focus on assisting management in overseeing financial reporting, internal control systems, risk management, internal and external audit functions, and good governance and accountability.
The establishment of the ABG Audit Committee highlights ABG's dedication to strengthening corporate governance and clearing current perceptions of corruption in the government.
The committee's work will contribute to building public trust and confidence in ABG's financial management practices and ultimately supporting the Bougainville’s long-term development goals.
The ABG Audit Committee comprises of Kearnneth Nanei, Acting Chief Secretary; Belinda Maree Gara, Secretary Community Government; Alex Kerangpuna, Secretary Commerce, Trade and Economic Development; Shirley Kaetavara Sogoro, Accountant and CPA Member; and Johnson Tukunoi, Accountant and CPA Member.
The establishment and swearing-in of the ABG Audit Committee was witnessed by the senior staff of the National Government’s Department of Finance and the PNG Auditor General’s Office and staff from the ABG Department of Treasury and Finance.
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