The Parliament has approved a budget of MVR 134.2 million for the Auditor General’s Office for the coming year, the largest allocation in its history. The decision was passed unanimously by all 51 members present.

The budget, which is submitted separately from the State budget, will be included in next year’s national budget once approved by the Ministry of Finance and Planning. It represents an increase of MVR 20 million compared to this year, with MVR 92.8 million allocated for recurrent expenditure and office needs, and MVR 41.5 million for the Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP).

The Auditor General’s Office had proposed the increase to address staffing gaps, noting that seven of its 22 departments currently operate without senior auditors. Salaries have also risen following the transfer of Audit Fund employees to the National Pay Framework, adding MVR 9.1 million to costs.

Vice Chair of the Finance Committee Ahmed Saleem said the record allocation highlights the importance of ensuring effective oversight of public funds. He added that the new Audit Office building, expected to be completed by March next year, will further strengthen the institution’s capacity to deliver comprehensive audit reports.