Alarming revelations have emerged regarding the transfer of vehicles and machinery worth $8.6 million from Fiji’s Public Works Department (PWD) following its closure in 2008. Infrastructure Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau disclosed that despite the assets being divided and allocated to various divisions over the years, there are no official records detailing these transfers.
The accusations came during a session in Parliament when Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu requested an update on the status of the PWD and the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA). Minister Tuisawau expressed concerns over the missing equipment, which included significant assets like cranes, graders, and loaders. He claimed, “132 pieces of assets, valued at $8.6 million, were engaged under the leadership of the previous government,” spotlighting a troubling aspect of infrastructure governance.
In response to Tuisawau’s claims, Opposition MP Jone Usamate challenged the minister, stating, “He’s misleading the house; nobody here was involved in that decision.” In his defense, Tuisawau mentioned that the machinery had been transferred to the FRA and FWH Associates, an engineering company allegedly engaged by the Opposition during their governance.
The disappearance of these assets raises vital concerns, particularly as Tuisawau highlighted a staggering $23.6 million owed by the previous Government to FWH, presenting a considerable financial burden. He expressed his distress over the circumstances, referring to them as “the shenanigans we have to deal with.”
Tuisawau remains hopeful, however, indicating that with Japan’s assistance set to provide resources for improvements over the next three years, the government is committed to revitalizing the PWD’s assets and capabilities. He urged the people of Fiji to support the current government in the forthcoming elections, promising to complete necessary infrastructure projects.
While the inquiry into the missing machinery continues, Waikato’s revitalization of its public works capability brings hope for enhanced infrastructure and road conditions in Fiji, fostering better accessibility and economic growth. The government’s commitment to tackle these issues marks a pivotal moment for Fiji’s infrastructure future.
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