The Office of the Auditor General in Solomon Islands has taken an important step towards ensuring accountability and transparency by engaging KPMG International to audit the estimated $2.5 billion spent on the 2023 Pacific Games, hosted in Honiara.
This move has gathered widespread support from local communities, who are hopeful that the audit will not only reveal the financial details of the event but also bring any offenders to justice.
A notable concern has arisen from a troubling incident during the games involving a $6.4 million contract awarded by the National Hosting Authority (NHA) and the Committee (GOC) to Empire Barbershop. This contract, intended for the provision of toilet paper for the Pacific Games, has come under scrutiny due to allegations of financial mismanagement and possible fraud. The agreement, signed with Empire Barbershop and Sullivans (SI) Limited, has raised eyebrows, particularly following statements from Solomon Islands Transparency highlighting the leakage of funds related to the contract.
“The agreement between NHA/GOC and the EMPIRE Barbershop and Sullivans (SI) Limited is a broad-day light way of siphoning of money, non-transparent, fishy and unaccountable. It shows an uncaring and reckless Executive Government that prioritises toilet paper over basic medical drugs for its people,” TSI said in a statement.
Auditor General David Dennis confirmed that his office has engaged KPMG as contract auditors to undertake a financial statement audit and a special audit of the Pacific Games 2023.
As the investigation unfolds, locals are anxiously awaiting the outcomes of both the KPMG audit and the inquiry into the Economic Stimulus Package Audit. The people of Solomon Islands are calling on the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force to initiate their investigations as soon as possible.
The commitment to a thorough audit reflects a broader push for financial integrity in the Solomon Islands, as citizens demand accountability for public funds. As the nation navigates these challenges, the hope remains that the findings will lead to justice and enhanced transparency in future governmental expenditures.
