Opposition Member of Parliament Jone Usamate has expressed significant concerns regarding the operation of Government vehicles on Fiji’s roads, emphasizing that they are not adhering to road regulations. In his statement, Usamate pointed out issues such as speeding and improper overtaking by these vehicles, which endanger the safety of other road users.
He noted that the use of rotating flashing lights on government vehicles during non-emergency situations is illegal. Usamate described these vehicles as crucial assets needed for delivering government services but claimed they are often parked at private residences and community police posts, even on weekends.
According to Usamate, the government’s Transport Policy clearly outlines that vehicles should be parked at official agency garages or car parks after business hours, except in special cases with prior approval. He urged the public to observe the number of government vehicles traveling from homes to offices during peak morning hours, picking up officials along the way.
Usamate highlighted that the policy permits only Permanent Secretaries to utilize government vehicles, urging an end to these practices as they waste public resources. FijiLive has reached out to the Ministry of Finance, Transport, and Logistics for comment.