Disgraceful situation over non-payments to returning officers
A local man who served as a returning officer in the general election last year has informed the Times that a recent claim by PSC Navy Epati in the daily paper that payment would be forthcoming, is complete rubbish and that government should front up and advise all those who are still unpaid just what the hold -up is and when their payment can be expected.
The man who does not wish to be identified says he is still waiting for payment and was told that all payments are held up by the Audit Office while it investigates a complaint against Justice HOM Mark Short.
A woman who served as a returning officer and who is still to be paid told the Times when she contacted the Chief Returning Officer she was told payment has to wait until the Supplementary Budget. However, she says funds for paying returning officers should have been budgeted before the election took place. The woman said like many others she needs the money and this hold –up is another slap in the face for the little people.
Obviously someone in the previous administration goofed when it came to the Budget for the election and now ordinary people are paying the penalty.
Also it is not acceptable that conflicting explanations be given. The Returning Officers have a genuine concern.
The situation is an absolute disgrace and the terms “Mickey Mouse” and “Disney World” would not go astray.

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