Overview of Article 169 of the Constitution of Pakistan
The Constitution of Pakistan, established in 1973, serves as the fundamental legal document shaping the country’s governance and institutions. Among its numerous articles, Article 169 holds particular significance, delineating the functions and powers of the Auditor-General in overseeing financial matters. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Article 169, shedding light on its key points and implications for financial accountability within the nation.
Article 169 States
169. Functions and powers of Auditor-General
- The Auditor-General shall, in relation to-
- the accounts of the Federation and of the Provinces; and
- the accounts of any authority or body established by the Federation or a Province, perform such functions and exercise such powers as may be determined by or under Act of’ Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) and, until so determined, by Order of the President.
Key Points of Article 169 of the Constitution of Pakistan
- Jurisdictional Embrace: Article 169 reflects the federal structure of Pakistan’s governance, emphasizing the importance of financial oversight at multiple levels – the Federation, Provinces, and entities established by them.
- Scope of Responsibility: The Auditor-General is entrusted with the crucial task of scrutinizing not only the government’s accounts but also those of various authorities and bodies, adding a layer of accountability to diverse governmental entities.
- Legal Framework Determination: An essential aspect of Article 169 is its provision for the determination of the Auditor-General’s functions and powers through an Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) or, until such determination, by an Order of the President. This underscores the necessity of a formal legal framework to define and guide the Auditor-General’s role.
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Crux of Article 169 of the Constitution of Pakistan
At its core, Article 169 establishes the Auditor-General as a pivotal figure in ensuring financial transparency and accountability within the Pakistani government and its affiliated entities. The emphasis on parliamentary acts or presidential orders to delineate specific functions and powers indicates a commitment to legal precision and democratic governance in financial matters.
This constitutional provision serves as a safeguard against financial malfeasance, providing a structured approach to auditing and oversight. By extending the Auditor-General’s mandate beyond the federal government to encompass provincial bodies and other entities, Article 169 fosters a comprehensive approach to financial accountability.
Conclusion: Article 169 of the Constitution of Pakistan
Article 169 of Pakistan’s Constitution serves as a cornerstone for fiscal responsibility and transparency, giving power to the Auditor-General who in turn performs important functions to oversee financial matters of government departments, provinces, and associated entities with rigorous scrutiny.
As Pakistan continues to evolve, the role outlined in Article 169 remains crucial in maintaining the integrity of financial systems. The ongoing determination of the Auditor-General’s functions and powers through legislative or presidential means underscores the adaptability of the constitutional framework to the changing needs of the nation.
