BY BEN BILUA
THE Finance Minister of Western Provincial Government has strongly condemned the harassment and intimidation of technical and provincial staff by certain non-executive members.
Speaking during the introduction of the Western Provincial Government’s 2025/2026 Budget Estimate, Ronnie Ghemu expressed deep concern over what he described as troubling behaviour directed at staff members.
He said he was “very surprised, disappointed and deeply troubled” by actions of some non-executive members who allegedly threatened executive management and technical staff with termination should they assume control of the government.
Ghemu criticized the conduct, stating it reflects a leadership approach driven by self-interest rather than the welfare of the province.
“The motion of no confidence is a political matter involving Members of the Provincial Assembly, not the provincial staff.
“Why involve our staff? Or is there a new requirement where staff are also subjected to the motion of no confidence?” he said.
Ghemu said technical staff are recruited through the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening under programs such as the Provincial Governance Strengthening Programme and the Provincial Capacity Development Fund. As such, he described the threats as improper, unprofessional, and immature.
He calls on non-executive members to recognise and appreciate the efforts of technical and administrative staff, particularly their contributions towards achieving results under the PCDF.
“They worked their guts out to ensure we qualify for the PCDF, and this patronizing attitude is uncalled for, especially from our elected so-called leaders. We do not condone nor need such cowboy tactics in this province,” Ghemu said.
Meanwhile, it is understood that non-executive members are preparing to confront the current administration during a motion of no confidence hearing scheduled for today.
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