Reactions to the Creation of an Audit Council in Cyprus

Reactions have been sparked by the proposal to create an Audit Council within the Audit Office of Cyprus. According to the report, the proposed council will consist of three members and will have an advisory role to the Auditor General.

The Minister of Justice, Mr. Χαρτσιώτης, stated that the Audit Council will not affect the powers of the Auditor General but will strengthen his role through recommendations. However, there are fears that the creation of the council is an attempt by the controlled state services to limit the independence of the Audit Office.

It is noted that the Auditor General does not have executive power, and his reports, which are made public, annoy those in positions of power. Questions are raised about how the Audit Council will contribute to transparency and whether it will affect the publication of reports.

Questions arise regarding the necessity of the council, given the competence of the officials and supervisors of the Audit Office. Alternative proposals include the creation of a committee that will monitor the implementation of the recommendations of the Audit Office and the creation of a mechanism with an executive character for public works.