There is growing pressure on the government over the status of the forensic audit of 13 major projects carried out under the former administration.

Questions linger about whether the New Zealand-based auditing firm, BDO New Zealand, has uncovered any evidence of corruption or financial mismanagement. 

Despite previous assurances from the Minister of Finance Lautimuia Uelese Va'ai that an update would be forthcoming, no public statement has been made regarding the progress of the audit as of Wednesday.

The forensic audit was commissioned to examine a series of high-profile infrastructure and financial projects implemented during the tenure of former Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi. 

The projects in question include the construction of Vaiaata Prison built by prisoners, Ti'avea Airport, Satitoa Wharf, and the National ID Project, among others.

Tuilaepa, now the leader of the Opposition has voiced concern over the government's reluctance to provide an update on the progress of the taxpayer-funded audit. 

"The public deserves to know the outcome of this audit," Tuilaepa stated, calling on the government to be transparent with the findings. 

He further questioned whether a report had already been submitted, noting the importance of accountability for public funds.

The forensic audit was originally intended to encompass over 20 major projects, but in April 2024, Lautimuia revealed that only 13 projects would be included in the first phase. 

The decision to limit the scope was due to budget constraints and the timeframe specified by BDO New Zealand. 

The auditing firm had initially proposed completing the re-auditing within three months, however, it was later announced that the work was expected to be completed by October 2024. 

Lautimuia, in June of this year, explained that the $696,000 contract with BDO New Zealand was awarded based on the firm's ability to meet the budget and timeline requirements. 

The initial budget of $500,000 for the audit was supplemented by an additional $500,000 in the last financial year, bringing the total allocation to $1 million.

The audit process is being conducted in partnership with Samoa’s Internal Audit Division, and BDO New Zealand was given dedicated office space to ensure an independent and focused review. 

Lautimuia emphasised that the forensic audit would also improve overall government operations.