AN INVESTIGATION into the 2023 Pacific Games (PG) is set to commence soon following the completion of the audit into the spendings for the hosting of the games and its presentation in Parliament.
The Solomon Islands Independent Commission Against Corruption (SIICAC) and the police are expected to lead the investigation.
According to Auditor General David Dennis, the financial statement audits of the National Hosting Authority (NHA) for the calendar years 2019 to 2021, along with a special procurement audit, are anticipated to be reported in the first quarter of 2025.
However, this timeline is contingent upon the timely submission of the necessary documentation.
Mr Dennis said ongoing challenges in obtaining requested documentation from the NHA continue to delay the completion of these audits.
“To date, proper documentation to support the validity of actions and transactions for certain major procurements has not been provided and remains a concern. Updates on the expected completion dates for the remaining financial audits covering 2022-2024 will be shared later.”
The Auditor General, in partnership with KPMG, has been conducting the audit of the NHA, which oversaw the hosting of the 2023 Pacific Games in Honiara.
In a move to support the audit process, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has relieved his Secretary, Dr Sir Jimmie Rodgers of his duties to allow him to focus on this priority.
Upon his return from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Sunday, PM Manele confirmed that Dr Sir Jimmie had agreed to extend his service into 2025.
However, Sir Dr Jimmie requested the appointment of a new Secretary to the Prime Minister (SPM) to handle the regular responsibilities of the role to allow him to focus on other high priority and transformational government initiatives beyond the SPM’s core duties.
Dr Sir Jimmie’s Secretary to Prime Minister -Special Duties’ responsibilities will include:
- Completing the audit process for the 2023 Pacific Games and ensuring its presentation in Parliament;
- Assisting in securing finances and organizing international and regional events in 2025, including the Pacific Islands Pageant and the Honiara Summit, both of which he played a key role in securing;
- Coordinating the Pacific Ministers’ Regional Meeting on Water in August; and
- Co-chairing, alongside the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (PS MFAET), the planning and hosting of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in September.
In addition to the NHA audit, media reports have confirmed that the police are currently investigating allegations of abuse related to the Economic Stimulus Package (ESP), based on referrals from the Auditor General’s Office.
The Auditor General has already submitted these referrals, and the National Criminal Investigation Department (NCID) has taken up the case for further scrutiny.
By EDDIE OSIFELO
Solomon Star, Honiara
