UDP calls for commission of inquiry

With a successful mass protest under its belt the Opposition United Democratic Party, not to mention an aroused public, is now faced with the task of how to exploit allegations of financial mismanagement by government, the Social Security Board and Development Finance Corporation. Today the UDP made its plans clear by calling for an independent commission of inquiry. In a release issued today, the UDP rejected cabinet’s suggestion of a hearing by the House Public Accounts Committee as well as any investigation by a Senate subcommittee. Both bodies, according to the UDP, would necessarily reflect the PUP political majority and would thus not be independent. In calling for a Commission of Inquiry, presumably under the existing legislation, the Opposition specified that it should be headed by the Chief Justice and include as members a forensic accountant and commercial banker. The release went on to say that, the UDP has written its various social partners and will seek a meeting over the next few days to continue their collaborative effort.

A look at the Commissions of Inquiry Act reveals that only the Prime Minister can establish a Commission of Inquiry and, once established, that commission has wide-ranging powers including the ability to subpoena witnesses, financial records and other documents. Failure to comply with such subpoenas can result in fines and up to six months in prison.