Several cases of alleged corruption, financial mismanagement and breaches of government policies and procedures in certain ministries and statutory authorities have been identified following special investigations conducted by the Auditor General's Office.
In the office of the Prime Minister, the Auditor General’s report reveals that ousted Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase allegedly abused tax dollars while taking precautionary measures prior to the December 5th takeover in 2006 and these expenses were incurred without the issue of purchase orders.
The Auditor General also raises serious concerns over the awarding of scaffolding works in the Ministry of Works and Energy and has recommended that the matter be referred to police for investigations as proper procedures were not followed in awarding the contracts.
The special investigation into Fiji Ports Cooperation also reveals exorbitant expenses by the Board. The Auditor General highlights excessive purchase of liquor and finger foods for a meeting in Savusavu, and over expenditure by the Board in hosting and attending various conferences. The report also calls for explanations from the Board on reasons for various overseas trips taken by Board members and Directors.
Similar excessive expenditure is also highlighted in the special investigation report into Airports Fiji Limited where the Auditor General reveals that several payments, approved by the AFL board were not supported by invoices or receipts which includes expenses for a retreat for AFL Management in 2005 and 2006.
The Auditor General has also called on the AFL board to justify the excessive overseas travel by the Chairman and CEO.
The reports have been tabled in cabinet and will now be referred to the Public Accounts Committee. The committee members are expected to be appointed by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister in the next few weeks.
It has also been confirmed that the Finance Ministry has instructed that all the cases of alleged fraudulent and corrupt practices be referred to FICAC and the police for investigations.
Report Highlights Alleged Abuse
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