Government assets not to be used for political campaigns: Nevu

The caretaker government has issued an instruction prohibiting the use of government assets for campaign purposes. The instruction comes as the campaigning for the forthcoming snap elections began Thursday following the declaration of eligible candidates by the Electoral Commission Wednesday night. The instruction covers government vehicles, boats, houses and offices.

Speaking on behalf of the Caretaker Minister of Internal Affairs, Hosea Nevu, the First Political Adviser of the Ministry, Levi Tarosa, has advised all civil servants under the Ministry including those in the provincial government authorities and municipal councils to not use government assets such as vehicles for campaign purposes.

“Government offices including those in the provinces and municipalities also must not be used for political meetings or campaigns,” Ishmael added saying “political parties must find private offices or houses for their meetings.”

“We in Iauko Group, even though in the Caretaker Government, use party member Jay Ngwele’s private home for our meetings.”

The Director General of the Office of the Prime Minister, Johnson Naviti, has also written to all Director Generals of Ministries advising of the instruction.

“As we enter the campaign period for the upcoming snap elections, the Hon. Prime Minister has requested this office to advise you to ensure that no government properties including vehicles and office assets are to be used by political parties for campaign purposes,” he wrote in an email.

“Further, civil servants are not to be involved in politics-related activities especially during officials hours and when on official duty.”

Naviti warned that Public Service Commission disciplinary procedures would come into force if civil servants are found to be involved in such activities.

“Further, by copy of this email the Acting Commissioner (Police) is requested to assist with detaining government vehicles found to be used for campaigning and political related activities,” the DG to the Prime Minister’s Office added.