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Examining Mandatory Audit Firm Rotation and Audit Quality in South Africa: Practitioner and Academic Perspectives

Author

Listed:
  • Munkaila Aminu

    (University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa)

  • Bomi Cyril Nomlala

    (University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa)

  • Kiran Baldavoo

    (University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa)

Abstract

In this study, we examined the perceptions of practitioners and academics perspectives about the impact of mandatory audit firm rotation (MAFR) on audit quality (AQ) in South Africa within the province of KwaZulu-Natal. The paper considered the position of the European Union (EU) and the South African Independent Regulatory Body for Auditors (IRBA) regarding its policy shift on MAFR. The study examined the logical connection between MAFR and AQ. This was through the opinion of 101 practitioners and academics gathered from Tier 2 audit firms and two public institutions about the readiness of the rule in South Africa’s jurisdiction. We utilised a quantitative research method through descriptive statistics to understand the influence of the policy on AQ. Opinions of audit experts through closed-ended questionnaires were a distinct feature of our research, while analysis of the descriptive study was on the usage of feedback from respondents. Results from the data analysis presented provided a general overview of respondents’ opinions on the rule. Affirming our research aim, data from the majority of respondents agreed that the policy would strengthen AQ but maintained that the results of the additional imposition of cost could be worse. While this paper contributes to the existing literature on MAFR and AQ, it recommends that future research should consider the views of audit experts from different financial reporting ecosystems in South Africa to obtain diverse opinions regarding a framework that shall contribute to effective MAFR on AI and AQ.

Suggested Citation

  • Munkaila Aminu & Bomi Cyril Nomlala & Kiran Baldavoo, 2024. "Examining Mandatory Audit Firm Rotation and Audit Quality in South Africa: Practitioner and Academic Perspectives," International Journal of Economics and Financial Issues, Econjournals, vol. 14(3), pages 40-47, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:eco:journ1:2024-03-5
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Audit Quality; Audit Experts and Mandatory Audit Firm Rotation;

    JEL classification:

    • M41 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Accounting - - - Accounting
    • M42 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Accounting - - - Auditing
    • M48 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Accounting - - - Government Policy and Regulation

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