Former government officials are expected to hold a press conference next week at the Parliament to address allegations surrounding Lulutai Airlines.
The meeting follows the Eke government’s concerns over the purchase of the TOP$15 million twin otter aircraft in December 2023.
Just over a year after the purchase, the Minister for Public Enterprises, Mr Piveni Piukala, said the aircraft’s two engines would be replaced next month. It is understood that the plane will need to address other significant maintenance issues.
The minister said it would cost millions to do this maintenance.
Mr Piukala said he was concerned regarding the aircraft’s multiple groundings due to technical issues.
Lulutai Airlines has approached the government for another $7 million subsidy to revive the company. However, the Minister said the government was assessing the possibility of winding it up due to its inability to meet financial obligations.
The news follows serious concerns among public servants after revelations that Lulutai had borrowed millions of their retirement funds.
The Minister said that the Cabinet was considering asking the king to use his authority to establish a royal commission to investigate the aircraft purchase.
The aircraft acquisition has been controversial from the outset, with former Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku facing serious allegations of secrecy and lack of transparency.
We contacted Hu’akavameiliku for comment at the time.
Meeting
Former Cabinet Minister Dr Viliami Latu sent an email this evening inviting the media to a press conference scheduled for next Monday 10, at 11am in the Parliament conference room.
Mr Latu said most of those hosting the meeting were former government members.
He said their work involved directly with the Lulutai Airlines, and it was important for them to clarify issues related to the company.
