Unfinished business from former Mayor of Aitutaki

Serious questions are being asked as to several boatbuilding projects that were started by the former Mayor of Aitutaki Tai Herman but seem to be abandoned since he lost his bid for the mayoralty in January this year. It is believed he has left the island and is residing in Rarotonga.
“Deposits were made to Herman, some of which are reportedly from “government funds” to complete several barges but he appears to have “gone bush” and has made no effort to contact us as to his intentions to honour his commitment to complete these projects,” said a disgruntled member of an organization from one of the outer islands who believes they have been ripped off by Herman.
“It is very disappointing because we trusted him but now, we want to take him to task because he has not delivered on his commitment and if he doesn’t keep his end of the bargain, we’ll see him in court. He owes us big time and we’re not going to just let him walk away like that.”
“We understand he is now living and working in Rarotonga and is intending on getting rid of his machinery and equipment in Aitutaki as he appears to be in financial difficulty. What he does with that is his business but all we are asking is that he come clean and tell us what he intends to do regarding completing our project otherwise we want our money back.”
Ironically, since Herman left Aitutaki, the island is rumoured to have “come alive” and there is a new spirit of togetherness amongst it’s people. His management of the Cyclone Pat Recovery process has left a bitter taste in the mouths of many people in Aitutaki and is said to be the main reason why he was dumped as Mayor in January.
While that may be good for Aitutaki, it doesn’t give any satisfaction to those who claim they’ve been ripped off and would like Herman to contact them and give some indication as to what his intentions are regarding the completion of the projects. Either refund the money owed or face the possibility of legal action.

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