‘Scrapping FICAC and reinstating PWD, a sign of hidden agenda’

The scrapping of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) and reinstating the Public Works Department (PWD) by the People’s Alliance, if in power is a sign of the hidden agenda of its leader, Sitiveni Rabuka.

FijiFirst candidate, Premila Kumar, spoke on the ineffectiveness of the PWD during its existence. Ms Kumar said the operations of the PWD was questionable in the slow progress it made with the projects they undergo.

She said the laxity of workers for PWD on the ground and the many inappropriate theft that existed within its operation.

“Fuel and vehicle parts were stolen by employees and the work they undergo was time consuming as more workers were concentrated on less depending man power projects,” he indicated.

This prompted the Bainimarama-led party to get rid of the department and start independent companies like the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA).

Ms Kumar said with the establishment of FRA, they were creating economic activity.

“We are outsourcing road construction, which means that you as an individual can start a business or you can employ people to work in road construction works,” she said.

Loans

Ms Kumar said all relevant processes were followed and assessment properly conducted to issue loans. She reiterated all Government’s around the world took loans to ensure developments were progressing.

FijiFirst general secretary, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum clarified loans were taken to ensure productivity did not stop. He clarified they had not borrowed money from Japan since 2012.