Fiji’s Opposition MP Alvick Maharaj has voiced concerns over the repeated absence of Permanent Secretaries from Public Accounts Committee (PAC) hearings.

His remarks were made during the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration’s submission on the review of the 2020, 2021, and 2022 audit reports.

Maharaj, a member of the PAC, expressed frustration over the non-appearance of key officials responsible for overseeing government spending.

“The absence of permanent secretaries from the Public Accounts Committee is worrying. Last week, we had four submissions; only two turned up. This week, we have two, and none of the PSs is appearing before the committee,” he said.

He said it was important that Permanent Secretaries were present to discuss reports, particularly modified ones.

“We are dealing with reports that are modified, not unmodified, and it is not wise that permanent secretaries excuse themselves when they need to present before PAC. This committee is responsible for scrutinising government spending, and as the principal accounts officer, it is the responsibility of the permanent secretary to appear. If they cannot explain these reports, this will continue because they are not taking PAC seriously,” Maharaj added.

PAC Chair Sakiusa Tubuna acknowledged the issue, assuring that action would be taken.

“We shall be writing to the PS to accord this as a priority when they are asked to submit before the committee and ensure they are available. If they are not, they should advise us in advance,” Tubuna said.