State Audit Organization Achieves Key 2024 Targets, Sets Ambitious Goals for 2025.

Vientiane: The State Audit Organization (SAO) has successfully achieved its 2024 goals, having completed inspecting 120 key targets. These include loan and financial aid projects, state enterprises, and compliance with financial and operational regulations. The announcement was made by Mr. Viengthavisone Thepphachanh, President of the SAO, during the 8th Ordinary Session of the 9th National Assembly on Wednesday. "Among the findings, common issues included misuse of funds, noncompliance with procurement laws, unrecorded fixed assets, and improper management of vehicle procurement and maintenance," Mr. Viengthavisone stated. According to Lao News Agency, the completed inspections encompassed 23 follow-ups on corrective actions from previous audits and 86 targets identified in the SAO's 2024 annual audit plan. Building on these achievements, the SAO has set an ambitious target of 154 inspections for 2025. This includes intensified scrutiny of banks, enterprises, and public projects, with 15 key targets designa ted for detailed review. The SAO's efforts aim to strengthen financial accountability, promote transparency, and ensure the efficient use of public funds. As a cornerstone of national financial integrity, the organization remains committed to maintaining rigorous standards and addressing systemic issues. Additionally, the SAO successfully investigated and resolved four corruption cases, uncovering total damages exceeding 115 trillion kip. The cases implicated 208 individuals, of whom 40 were prosecuted (including two foreigners), 39 were detained, and 158 faced administrative penalties.