The Samoa Government is halting the use of corporate credit cards by officials to make payments when travelling on official overseas trips.
Samoa Observer reports the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Finance, Leasiosiofaasisina Oscar Malielegaoi confirmed the move which follows concerns raised in a report by the Controller and Chief Auditor, Fuimaono Camillo Afele.
According to the Audit Report for financial year 2018/2019, the Ministry of Finance does not have a formal policy to govern the use of credit cards.
“As raised last year, there is still no formal policy to govern the use of credit cards by Government Officials,” said Leasiosio.
He said a new policy is now being developed to phase out corporate credit cards.
“All Government Officials, including Ministers are expected to use their own personal accounts to pay their expenses when travelling overseas for official meetings.
He said online platforms provided by the four commercial banks (Debit Visa Cards and Master Cards) and officials are encouraged to get personal cards for all online payments.
