A tragic traffic accident involving the son of an Assistant Minister’s driver has prompted Fiji’s Public Service Commission (PSC) to initiate a thorough crackdown on the misuse of government vehicles. The incident, which resulted in fatalities, has raised serious concerns regarding the unauthorized usage of state vehicles, particularly for personal errands after hours.
PSC chairperson Luke Rokovada stated that the investigation is underway, and he emphasized that the government is taking strong measures to prevent misuse of taxpayer-funded assets. He reiterated that government vehicles are not intended for personal use and that approval for housing these vehicles at private residences is only given in exceptional cases.
This incident sheds light on a pattern of behavior where civil servants, especially drivers, misuse government vehicles for activities such as purchasing alcohol or transporting unauthorized passengers. Mr. Rokovada condemned these practices as unacceptable and underscored the seriousness of the situation, stressing the importance of discipline and accountability within public service.
In light of the accident, the PSC, in conjunction with the Ministry of Finance, will be reevaluating the current policies regarding the garaging of government vehicles to tighten regulations for their use. The aim is to enhance public safety and restore trust in government operations.
Previous incidents of drunk driving among government vehicle operators highlight the urgency of enforcing stricter measures. The Fiji Police Force has already shown commitment through increased random checks and rigorous enforcement of driving laws to ensure that all individuals comply, regardless of their position. This approach fosters a culture of responsibility and accountability among public servants, ultimately contributing to a safer environment for all citizens on the roads.
Public involvement and transparency will also play crucial roles in these reforms, as they encourage citizens to report any misuse of government resources, reinforcing community safety and trust in governance.
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