PREMIER of Temotu Province, Nelson Omar Menale has been accused of bribery and corruption by an Asian businessman.
The businessman, who wants to remain anonymous, claimed he had paid a total of $90,000 to Premier Menale who had demanded the money to dish out to members of his Provincial Executive Government.
The businessman alleged that shortly after his election last year as the new Provincial Premier of Temotu Province, Mr Menale demanded $90,000 from him so he could distribute to members of his Executive.
“In his first approach shortly after his election as Premier, Menale asked me to give him SBD$60,000 so that he can disburse it amongst his executive members,” the businessman claimed.
“On the second occasion after coming from Santa Cruz, he asked me again for another SBD$30, 000 for the same purpose, during which I also gave him the money,” the Asian business man alleged.
According to the Asian businessman, some members of Mr Menale’s provincial executive have denied receiving any payment from the premier.
The Asian claimed he has other records of illegitimate actions premier Menale had been involved and wish to demand an explanation from him..
But responding to the allegations Premier Menale categorically denied receiving any such payment from the Asian businessman.
“I do not remember asking for any huge amount of money from any Asian businessman.
“But if someone offers me money, I will receive it anyway but only as a form of a gift,” Menale said.
Mr Menale said that such accusations are geared only to tarnish his credibility in the media in an attempt to topple his government.
By RONALD TOITO’ONA
