## 📈 Audit Leadership Vacancy: Risks to Fiscal Governance

Sri Lanka remains without a substantive Auditor General since April 2025, raising critical concerns over the country’s fiscal oversight and constitutional administration. A decision on a new appointee by the Constitutional Council is expected today, February 3, 2026. • Core Institutional Role The office provides independent assurance to Parliament on the use of public resources across Government departments, State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), and local authorities. It is central to maintaining transparency and public confidence in financial management. • Current Governance Impact The 10-month vacancy has disrupted the systemic oversight of public finance. Key areas affected include: Accountability: Identification of financial risks and governance gaps in SOEs. Oversight: Legislative engagement through audit reports which guide corrective policy actions. Global Standing: Adherence to INTOSAI (International Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions) standards, which mandate institutional independence and security of tenure. • Appointment Criteria & Standards The debate highlights a shift toward prioritizing functional suitability over just professional credentials: Qualifications: While Chartered Accountants have traditionally held the post, international standards emphasize leadership in public-sector audit and ethical independence. Competencies: Knowledge of public finance systems and parliamentary accountability is deemed critical for a "whole-of-government" perspective. Comparative Practice: Jurisdictions like the UK and Canada emphasize proven leadership in public governance to ensure the office remains insulated from political influence. _Note: This summary is based on professional and constitutional perspectives regarding the current vacancy as of February 2026._