Joseph calls for coordinated action to address Single Audit backlogs

Pohnpei Public Information

September 7 , 2026
Palikir, Pohnpei — Governor Stevenson A. Joseph delivered the keynote address at the 37th Association of Pacific Islands Public Auditors (APIPA) Conference at the Kamorale Convention Center in Palikir, welcoming Honorable Public Auditors, Heads of Supreme Audit Institutions, and distinguished delegates from across the region.

Addressing the core theme, “Navigating Towards Accountability,” Governor Joseph reflected on the traditional Pacific art of navigation, drawing parallels between ancestral seafaring and modern governance. He emphasized that accountability requires leadership, discipline, and the courage to acknowledge mistakes and adjust course to serve the public interest.

Highlighting the critical mandate of audit institutions, Governor Joseph stated that public resources belong entirely to the people, making auditors the essential custodians of public trust. He noted that the true value of an audit relies on executive and legislative action following report issuances, urging agencies to correct internal control weaknesses, improve services, and protect institutional independence and strict ethical standards.

Addressing the regional challenges surrounding the Single Audit, Governor Joseph described it as a primary tool for public assurance and partner trust, rather than a routine compliance exercise. He highlighted the persistent delays and audit backlogs facing many Pacific jurisdictions due to capacity constraints and fragmented coordination.

“Bringing the Single Audit current can never be the responsibility of the Audit Office alone,” Governor Joseph stated, calling for an aggressive, whole-of-government commitment where finance, budget, procurement, and program officers operate in unison with public auditors.

Closing his address, Governor Joseph challenged participants to keep one central question at the heart of their deliberations: How can we strengthen accountability so that our governments can better serve our people and safeguard future generations?

The Association of Pacific Islands Public Auditors (APIPA) provides essential technical training, professional development, and collaborative support to government oversight institutions across the Pacific. By standardizing auditing practices and pooling regional resources, APIPA enables small island nations to overcome severe capacity constraints and complex financial oversight requirements. Its work is critical for ensuring that public funds—including vital external grant assistance—are managed transparently, efficiently, and for the benefit of local communities. Ultimately, APIPA strengthens the institutional independence of public auditors, reinforcing public trust and donor confidence in regional governance.

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