Malaita Ma’asina Forum (MMF) has blamed senior government officials for delays and wastage of projects’ funds earmarked for provinces.
MMF president, Charles Dausabea made the accusation during a recent press conference held in Honiara.
Senior officials of the MMF who spoke during the press conference have also criticised government for the way it sets out to implement its policy initiatives.
Mr.Dausabea said rural people have often been frustrated by long delays in the disbursement of development projects due to them.
He said the problem of delays in implementation was made by government officials, who he claims intentionally used delaying tactics.
“They used up these monies by organising unnecessary meetings often for the sole motive of tapping the funds for personal benefit while the intended recipients are deprived from receiving the maximum benefit of the project funding,” he said.
Mr.Dausabea said MMF will be working closely with the Government to ensure senior government officials delegated the tasks of disbursing project monies to their respective rural communities keep their hands off the funds.
He said officers found dishonest in the course of performing their duties must be removed and disciplined.
The MMF president said his organisation will keep reminding government the importance of prioritising development to rural communities of the country.
By AATAI JOHN
