New auditor-general sworn in, calls for access to all documents
Andreas Papaconstantinou was sworn in on Wednesday as the new auditor-general of the Republic, where he stressed the importance of his office’s independence, bravery and voice.
In one of his first remarks, he underscored the audit office should have access to all necessary documents without hindrance, while he specified he met with former auditor-general Odysseas Michaelides who guided him to find his footing.
President Nikos Christodoulides, who attended the ceremony at the presidential palace, said a key goal is to strengthen the rule of law and accountability “that we all owe to the Cypriot people.”
He urged Papaconstantinou to audit relentlessly, “starting first with the executive power, and the President of the Republic.”
Christodoulides said he chose Papaconstantinou due to his track record and experience, both in the private and public sectors.
“I am absolutely certain that you will meet the challenging tasks of the auditor-general role, utilising the capable staff of the audit office.
“This is the first major challenge.”
The contested subject of the audit office reform was also underlined, where Christodoulides said all independent institutions should be modernised.
“Yesterday I spoke to the Central Bank for the first time. We are working towards this direction and within this framework I decided to appoint you, without a shadow of doubt that you will fulfil your duties.”
Papaconstantinou thanked Christodoulides and in his own speech said “the audit office should be independent, have access to data and a strong voice.
“I am certain we will have you next to us in this effort.”
Concerns over limited access to data for the audit office was documented in the latest Rule of Law report by the EU Commission, which expressed its concern over the “trend” and the impact this was having.
The new auditor-general agreed that the “very capable” staff of the audit office should be utilised and collaborations should be developed.
“It takes bravery to achieve a proper audit, but it also requires the subject to accept the findings for the benefit of society.”
He also thanked Michaelides whom he said he met with. The formed auditor-general “made every effort to ease my first steps.”
Michaelides was fired last month after the Supreme Constitutional Court accepted the case filed against him by attorney-general George Savvides. A panel of eight judges found Michaelides had not conducted himself appropriately thus justifying his removal from office.
The development sparked a large-scale protest where thousands attended, calling it a corruption of justice.