Businesses, officials warned not to hike price of goods

CHIEF Secretary Isaac Lupari has warned businesses and government officials to refrain from hiking prices on the procurement and delivery of relief supplies to people in earthquake-affected areas.
Lupari in a statement said it had been witnessed in past relief exercises that some took advantage of the situation to over-price goods and rentals for vehicles and aircraft. “I am hoping that this will not be the case in this relief exercise,” he said.
“We will be keeping a close watch and monitor how procurements are done and goods are delivered to our people.”
Lupari said allocated funds must be spent on food supplies “at the right prices”.
“Suppliers must also have the capacity and ability to provide the supplies in a timely manner,” he said.
“Government officials must carry out their obligations in a proper and honest way. In addition, business houses must also be honest in the pricing of their goods and services.
“We must not take advantage of the plight of our people and the situation they are facing in the earthquake-affected areas.
“This is not the time.”
Lupari has directed National Emergency controller Dr Bill Hamblin and his team to provide weekly reports to his office.
He said the reports would be audited and if there were any suspicious activities found, police would investigate.