The Permanent Secretary for Finance, Shiri Gounder, has clarified that the superannuation payments made to the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) were executed directly by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) through manual telegraphic transfers, as these payments were processed offshore.
While giving testimony to the tribunal examining the actions surrounding the suspended DPP, Gounder emphasized that the ODPP handled these payments independently, without involvement from the Ministry of Finance. He referenced an employment contract clause that allows the DPP to choose where to allocate superannuation contributions, whether to a home superannuation fund or a local scheme under the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF).
Furthermore, Gounder confirmed that the Ministry of Finance has been responsible for salary payments to the DPP, adhering to the contractual arrangements established between the DPP and the President. He noted that these payments align with the government’s payroll system and that superannuation payments to all civil servants follow the stipulated FNPF contribution rates. The DPP holds the authorities within the ODPP to manage any funds allocated by Parliament independently.
The tribunal proceedings have been postponed to a future date, indicating that the investigation remains ongoing.
This situation sheds light on the complex financial structures within governmental agencies and highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in public office. As the tribunal continues its inquiry, it underscores the hope for clarification and resolution in the management of public funds, fostering greater trust in the governance system.
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