The Accounting and Auditing Board of Ethiopia (AABE) has questioned the reliability of data submitted by the Addis Ababa City Administration Revenue Bureau, after a review of alleged tax evasion claims revealed gaps in the registration of accounting professionals.

According to AABE, the Bureau implicated 9,587 professionals in alleged tax evasion for the 2016 fiscal year. The Board’s records, however, show that only 1,500 auditors were officially licensed at the time. The status of the remaining 8,000 professionals is unknown, suggesting possible unlicensed activity or errors in the Bureau’s reporting.

The Board requested a verified list of licensed professionals from the Bureau, receiving data for only 823 individuals without supporting documentation. AABE emphasised that regulatory actions against accountants require verified evidence and must follow established legal procedures. Preliminary or incomplete data cannot justify sanctions.

Abebe Shiferaw, head of AABE, said the Board’s role is to enforce auditing standards and protect public interest, noting that any professional found in violation must be addressed based on complete information or court rulings.

AABE highlighted the importance of maintaining professional independence and compliance with International Standards on Auditing, particularly as Ethiopia continues to integrate with international markets. The Board called on stakeholders to ensure accurate reporting and verification before pursuing disciplinary measures.