Raghoenandan calls for investigation into use of OWRO resources in Nickerie

DNA member Raghoenandan is seeking clarification over the possible use of machines, staff and vehicles of OWRO Nickerie for private work. According to the parliamentarian, there are indications that state resources are being deployed privately, while public roads and verges in the district urgently need maintenance.

In a statement dated 7 October, Raghoenandan says he has received information about the deployment of, among other things, a tractor with a mowing bar and OWRO workers for work that does not primarily serve the maintenance of public infrastructure. He wants to know for whom this work is being carried out and who granted permission for it. According to the DNA member, the service should instead use the dry period to level poor roads and mow verges along public roads under its management. “Government machines, government staff, fuel and vehicles are not private property. These resources have been made available to serve society,” Raghoenandan stresses.

Questions about possible favouritism

The parliamentarian also asks whether private contractors who do not themselves have the necessary machines are using government equipment. He expresses concerns about possible favouritism towards certain individuals, including political loyalists. These suspicions are not substantiated in the statement with names or specific assignments.

Raghoenandan wants the responsible authorities to investigate the role of the head of OWRU Nickerie. According to him, it should be clarified on the basis of which assignments and permissions machines and staff are deployed, and who is responsible for this.

He also calls attention to fuel consumption and the use of other state resources. He refers to the constitutional oversight of the management of state funds and asks that it be investigated whether the Anti-Corruption Act applies to the reported situations.

Use of official vehicle

In addition, Raghoenandan raises questions about the use of a red OWRO official vehicle by two KPA civil servants who, according to his information, do not work for OWRO. He wants to know who authorised this use, on what basis this is being done and for what work the vehicle is being deployed.

The DNA member stresses that he is not prejudging the outcome of an investigation. “But when there are concrete indications that state resources may be used to serve private interests, this cannot be ignored. Society has a right to transparency and accountability.”

Raghoenandan calls on the competent authorities to investigate the reports and take action if abuse or unlawful favouritism is established. The submitted statement contains no response from OWRO or the officials involved.