Audit uncovers Rs3.58bn irregularities in KP departments

An audit of various government departments in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has uncovered financial irregularities and questionable expenditures exceeding Rs3.58 billion during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-led provincial government.

The audit report identified irregularities in the approval of contracts, development projects and construction work. It also highlighted unauthorised spending, excessive payments and financial losses caused by contractors’ violations of contractual agreements.

According to the findings, contracts worth more than Rs1.205 billion were approved through questionable and non-transparent procedures. The report also detected excess payments of over Rs908.1 million for development and construction projects.

Furthermore, more than Rs600 million was spent without proper authorisation. The audit also pointed to financial losses exceeding Rs378.5 million because the relevant authorities failed to take action against contractors despite violations of their contractual obligations.

The audit was conducted during the first phase of the compliance audit for the financial year 2024-25. Out of 28 Principal Accounting Officers (PAOs) selected for examination, auditors reviewed 14 administrative departments.

The findings raised questions about financial management, transparency and compliance with government rules and regulations across the provincial departments.

The report also recorded recoveries made during the audit period.