Pacific Region News
PNG PM calls for tighter fiscal control
PORT MORESBY, Papua New Guinea—Prime Minister Sir Mekere Morauta has warned that the country must maintain strict financial control over government expenses or face the possibility of economic disaster.
In presenting what he called the Year 2000 “recovery budget” to Parliament Tuesday, Morauta said he plans to retire up to 400 million dollars of debt by downsizing government and selling off state enterprises, to “get the nation out of its economic quagmire.”
Probe overspending on celebration
PAGO PAGO, American Samoa—A legislative committee has found that 23 people should be investigated for their alleged involvement in overspending during last year’s territorial Golden Jubilee Celebration.
The original budget for the event was $100,000 dollars, but it wound up costing more than $620,000.
After a series of hearings, the House of Representatives Investigative Committee released a 400-page report accusing officials of perjury, theft, fraud and dereliction of duty.
Among those accused by the committee of wrongdoing are the Jubilee Chairman Senator Moaaliitele Tuufuli, now suspended by the Senate, and a former legislative finance officer, Velega Savali, who has since been fired.
More schools to open in Kiribati
TARAWA, Kiribati—The Ministry of Education has announced plans to operate 18 junior high schools by the end of 2001, providing all young people with free compulsory education through grade nine for the first time.
Chief education officer Timau Tera said establishment of the nationwide middle school system is among the present government’s most important goals.
President Teburoro Tito made the project a key campaign issue during national elections last year.
Niue’ leader faces vote of no confidence
ALOFI, Niue—Political and personal pressures are mounting on Premier Sani Lakatani.
When Parliament resumes later this week, Lakatani faces a vote of no confidence over his plans for a national airline. In addition, he recently underwent triple bypass heart surgery and Monday flew to New Zealand to be with his ailing wife.
The Niue political opposition has announced that it has the numbers to oust Lakatani, who has been Premier only since March.