Concerns surrounding the misuse of government vehicles have escalated, prompting the government to implement stringent measures aimed at restoring accountability and reducing costs associated with these violations. Despite existing regulations that limit the use of official vehicles to Ministers and Permanent Secretaries, reports of abuse continue to emerge.
Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has voiced strong criticism regarding these ongoing infractions, advocating for heightened accountability from ministries dealing with incidents involving government vehicles. He recounted his experience from 2011 as a Permanent Secretary, where he observed numerous government vehicles violating the policy that requires these vehicles to be secured after working hours.
In a response to these concerns, Attorney General Graham Leung clarified that all leased government vehicles are covered by a comprehensive insurance policy, which provides a safety net for financial repercussions arising from accidents. This approach allows the Ministry of Finance to manage losses through a surcharge process, as per the finance instructions established in 2010.
Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad acknowledged that the current leasing system was not in place when the coalition government took office. He introduced plans for a new vehicle management system aimed at curtailing misuse by facilitating more effective oversight of both leased and state-owned vehicles. This initiative will be supported by the government fleet management unit under the Ministry of Finance, designed to enhance future compliance and accountability.
In light of ongoing concerns, authorities have previously issued directives emphasizing that government vehicles should only be utilized for official purposes. A circular released by the Finance Ministry in July underscored the importance of adhering to these guidelines, explicitly prohibiting personal use or detours. Furthermore, all operators must secure necessary approvals and documentation, including valid driving licenses and defensive driving certificates.
The government is optimistic that these efforts will lead to improvements in driver behavior, thereby enhancing public safety and resource management. As the government enhances monitoring and establishes public engagement initiatives, it seeks to foster a community-oriented approach to vehicle management and road safety, reinforcing trust in governmental operations.
In summary, ongoing measures to manage government vehicles more effectively not only aim to prevent misuse but also reflect a broader commitment to responsible governance and road safety. As the situation evolves, these initiatives present an optimistic outlook for increased accountability and positive changes in driving practices among government officials.
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