Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Biman Prasad has issued a strong warning to government drivers against the misuse of government vehicles. He emphasized the need for adherence to the Public Service Regulations while operating the government vehicle fleet, stating that any form of abuse will not be tolerated.
Mr. Prasad has called on the public to play a role in this initiative by reporting any instances of vehicle misuse through the toll-free hotline, 1526. He highlighted that only Permanent Secretaries and Ministers are officially entitled to use government vehicles, while these vehicles should primarily serve official purposes.
“There are times when a vehicle may be needed beyond work hours, but using government vehicles for personal errands, such as grocery shopping, is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” stated Mr. Prasad.
He noted that the government’s vehicle fleet is insured, but stressed that accidents can disrupt services due to the lack of available replacements.
Concerns regarding the misuse of government vehicles have also been echoed by Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu, who urged ministers to reinforce accountability among Permanent Secretaries regarding the proper use of these assets. He highlighted that public service regulations clearly dictate the usage and garaging procedures for government vehicles.
Similar articles have previously discussed the introduction of guidelines aimed at mitigating the misuse of government vehicles, highlighting the need for official permission for use after hours and licensing requirements for operators. The Finance Ministry’s emphasis on improving monitoring and enforcing regulations reflects a broader commitment to responsible governance and public safety.
These initiatives aim to enhance accountability and public trust, ensuring that government resources are used efficiently and responsibly.
Overall, Mr. Prasad’s efforts, alongside public involvement, could foster a culture of responsibility among government vehicle operators, ultimately promoting safer roads for everyone.
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