BY MAINE LIVETT
Isles Media Freelance In Gizo
WESTERN province’s Premier Christian Mesepitu’s has stated that his government will focus on reviewing the Western Province Investment Corporation ordinance (WPIC), “to allow more transparency and accountability.”
Hon Mesepitu said, his government is in place to correct anomalies, and one of the priorities is for an immediate review of the WPIC ordinance, with possible amendments.
He recalled, “a couple of regimes have attempted to sort it out, and the latest was under a former premier when they came up with the WPIC ordinance 2014.”
“That too has not satisfactorily resolve underlining issues with regards to WPIC’s operations and accountability,” he stated that in his speech during assembly sitting Wednesday last week.
He pointed out that the obvious irregularity that comes to light is what he describes as “unilateral powers” given to the WPIC Chairman, which he alleged draws up issues of conflict of interest and lack of proper financial management and accountability.
Chairmanship of WPIC has always been assumed by successive premiers, and so Mesepitu also shoulder that responsibility when he was elected unopposed recently.
“We have already gotten advice from the ministry of the provincial governments on possible options that can be explored, and this government is clear on what it needs to do in order to bring WPIC and its operation under the direct control of the Western Provincial Government.” He said.
“Meaning it will be subjected to the normal systems and processes for accountability and transparency under the western provincial government administration machinery.”
“One of the long-standing issues faced by the successive government over the years is that of the WPIC structure.” He said.
He mentioned that Province Investment Arm needs restructuring.
Also, in his address, Mesepitu referred to the political upheaval of the past months, which he stated “have seriously impacted the administration, the provincial assembly, staff, Ward members and members of the general public.
“These are part and parcel of democracy and expected to be dealt with every now and then.” “It is testament to a live and robust democratic system,” he said.
“We are merely continuing on with the previous government policy and work program.”
Also, a priority area of focus, he said, is to adopt the federal system and his government will seriously work on that through the appointment of a provincial state government committee. The program was already designed by the previous government.
we will ensure to effectively resourced them in order for them to progress this government’s intention so that they can be able to undertake the preparatory work and explore possible avenues to fast track the initiative.
