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Query over city manager’s post
QUESTIONS are being raised about whether
the top management of the National Capital District Commission is
legally in office, following revelations that the NCDC may be
financially broke.
A report on the front page of the Post-Courier suggested NCDC was broke
and had begun using emergency funds totalling K26 million to pay
contractors.
NCDC’s finance and administration director Raula Galewa, however, denied
this claim.
“Yes, we do have money, and there is nothing like what was said in the
paper,” Mr Galewa said.
Dame Carol Kidu, who is also a member of the NCDC Board, could offer
little as to the financial situation at City Hall.
“I have absolutely no idea. I have been left in dark as to what is
happening at the City Hall, so I am not able to confirm that for you.”
But a top NCDC official told The National, the NCDC was facing severe
financial problems and was having problems paying some of the small
contractors.
The official also questioned whether acting city manager Leslie Alu was
legally in office.
“Alu was appointed acting city manager in December. Under NCDC laws,
this acting appointment runs for three months only before he is
confirmed or replaced, or their acting term extended. As far as I am
aware, this had not happened,” the official said, adding that Mr Alu may
be signing expenditures that he was legally not authorised to do.
Mr Alu could not be contacted in his office and mobile phones.
Some of NCDC’s massive contracts, which have been described as
unsustainable by its annual revenue, include the K36 million Waigani
Drive upgrade, K9 million gardening contract, the hiring of a “super
consultant” to advise Governor Wari Vele and purchase of new vehicles.
Meanwhile, Transparency International (TI PNG) has expressed concern
over the allegation that K26 million set aside for emergency funds, has
been spent on unfunded projects.
TI PNG chairman Mike Manning said that having been given responsibility
for the management of the budget, Governor Vele should ensure that cost
overruns do not occur.
“We are concerned that the country’s most respected and fundamental body
for city development is being thrown into financial crisis.
“To have K26 million that was set aside for emergency funds used in
normal council expenses indicates bad financial management,” Mr Manning
said in a statement.
“It is hoped that the alleged absence overseas of the chief financial
officer and other executives has not contributed to the issue. We call
on the governor to clean up the mess,” he said.
 
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