Opposition questions government on relocating office

Opposition Leader Douglas Toumeriesa is asking the Government to reveal the rental agreement between itself and the new landlord of Melanesian Haus.

The Office of the Prime Minister and the Department of PM and NEC last month vacated Sir Manasupe Haus and now occupy the Melanesian Haus.

"Disclose the rental agreements, reveal how much the country is paying monthly and disclose the owner of the building.

"It doesn't make sense to move away from a building we own [Sir Manasupe Haus] to now rent a  new building and office space.

The Opposition is also calling on the government to make a clear structural check on the soundness of the building including a guarantee of security.

"There are security concerns for the Prime Minister to succumb to a landlord...what happens when a rental is not paid on time? 

"We also note that a private security contractor is protecting the premises...this is not a standard practice, as previously the office of Prime Minister has been secured by government security ensuring protection of state assets without compromising security,"Mr Tomuriesa said.

The Opposition Leader further added that people are unaware of rental agreements of the Tower buildings which currently host several key government departments.

The Opposition raised a concern that the Twin Towers have shown early signs of defects, and they doubt its structural soundness.

"There are signs of deterioration. Are we sure these buildings will be fit for purpose in the next 15 years when we [government] intend to purchase these buildings," Tomuresia added.