The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Malawi has halted the recruitment of auditors at the National Audit Office (NAO) due to alleged irregularities. ACB spokesperson Jacqueline Ngongonda confirmed that the recruitment exercise is under investigation. The bureau reasonably believes that proceeding with the recruitment would prejudice the ongoing investigations. NAO has complied by suspending the exercise and preserving relevant records.
According to allegations being examined by the ACB, aptitude-test questions were shared with relatives of Human Resources staff, and some candidates paid to obtain the questions. The investigation is also examining claims that a Lilongwe-based marking team received night allowances for local work. A separate set of allegations concerns the application of recruitment requirements, including a reported four-year substantive-service requirement.
NAO public relations officer Rabson Kagwamminga confirmed that the office had not been formally informed of the full scope of the investigation. He stated that NAO was cooperating with investigators and preserving relevant recruitment records. The office had not been formally informed that the alleged leakage of aptitude-test questions or changes to shortlisting criteria formed part of the investigation.
The recruitment controversy comes as NAO deals with two separate incidents involving its premises—a fire and a break-in. NAO confirmed that a fire affected three offices and was reported to the relevant authorities. Escom was involved in examining its possible cause. Kagwamminga attributed the incident to an electrical fault.
The office also confirmed a break-in at its Accounts Office, which was reported to the Malawi Police Service and remains under investigation. Three computer monitors were reported missing. NAO stressed that it has no evidence linking either incident to the disputed recruitment exercise.
The ACB investigation will determine whether the recruitment exercise involved corruption or other irregularities and whether the allegations are substantiated. The bureau's actions aim to ensure transparency and accountability in the recruitment process. NAO's cooperation with investigators is crucial in uncovering the truth.
The ACB's decision to halt the recruitment exercise demonstrates its commitment to upholding the law and preventing corruption. The investigation's outcome will be crucial in determining the next steps in the recruitment process. The public awaits the findings, hoping for a fair and transparent resolution.
Key points
- The Anti-Corruption Bureau has halted NAO auditor recruitment amid allegations of leaked aptitude-test questions and irregular shortlisting.
- The investigation will determine whether the recruitment exercise involved corruption or other irregularities.
- NAO is cooperating with investigators and preserving relevant recruitment records.
