National Assembly President calls for tough action over state budget violations

President of the National Assembly, Mr Xaysomphone Phomvihane, has urged the State Audit Organisation to take tough action against financial misconduct by strictly enforcing audit results and punishing violators, to prevent further loss of state funds.

Mr Xaysomphone Phomvihane chairs a meeting of the State Audit Organisation.  --Photo pasaxon newspaper

Speaking at the State Audit Organisation 2024 review meeting in Vientiane recently, Mr Xaysomphone outlined key tasks for 2025, highlighting the urgent need to resolve audit findings in line with the law according to the Pasaxon Newspaper.
The meeting was attended by the President of the State Audit Organisation, Mr Viengthavisone Thephachanh, and senior officials from relevant ministries.
Mr Xaysomphone stressed that failure to punish wrongdoers would encourage repeated violations, leading to greater misuse of state funds.
He proposed that the government introduce mechanisms to address state audit findings swiftly, including cutting unplanned expenses and recovering advance payments into the national treasury.
Another major focus is modernising the State Audit Office by adopting digital technologies and improving working methods to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving socio-economic environment. Mr Xaysomphone said this would ensure that state audits are efficient, timely, and aligned with current needs.
He also called for a shift in inspection methods, urging auditors to close loopholes in budget revenue and expenditure early on. Strict recommendations and disciplinary actions should be taken against organisations or individuals who breach regulations.
To achieve these goals, the State Audit Office must develop auditors with expertise in critical sectors such as road and bridge construction, infrastructure, energy, and mining.
Mr Xaysomphone said specialised knowledge would enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of audits.
He urged ministries, state-owned enterprises, and financial institutions to fully cooperate with the State Audit Office, resolving identified issues with transparency and accountability. Organisations that intentionally seek loopholes for personal benefit must face decisive legal action, he added.
Mr Xaysomphone also said that Party committees and government bodies at all levels should treat audit work as a key performance indicator, using it to assess leadership and implement disciplinary measures where needed.
Finally, he stressed the need for improved coordination between audit agencies and relevant departments to ensure smooth operations and adherence to audit plans, as delays in cooperation had affected audit schedules in the past.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update February 25, 2025)