The Civil Service Agency (CSA) has reported significant payroll irregularities in the House of Representatives, revealing approximately US$1.5 million in losses. The revelation made public during the House’s regular session on January 21 has drawn sharp criticism and raised questions about the oversight of Representative Marvin Cole, who served as Chair of the Rules, Order, and Administration Committee.
In a letter presented to lawmakers, CSA Director General Josiah Joekai detailed widespread violations of the National Remuneration Standardization Act of 2019. The law, designed to streamline payroll systems and reduce financial inefficiencies, appears to have been ignored, with numerous cases of staff being duplicated on central and supplementary payrolls. Joekai highlighted instances such as Chambiyor Bridges and Augustine Nimely, who were found receiving multiple salaries for performing similar duties.
The disclosure has caused an uproar within the Legislature. During intense discussions, lawmakers expressed frustration over how such discrepancies could go unnoticed for so long. Some accused past leadership of neglect, while others questioned why the Rules, Order, and Administration Committee failed to identify the issues. “This is a clear example of poor governance and a lack of accountability,” one lawmaker remarked during the session.
Efforts to maintain order were led by Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah, who urged lawmakers to remain focused on addressing the problem rather than engaging in political finger-pointing. Meanwhile, calls for immediate reform have intensified, with demands for audits, stricter payroll monitoring, and compliance with the 2019 Act.
The CSA has urged the House of Representatives to act swiftly, recommending the removal of duplicate payroll entries and improved enforcement of payroll regulations. “Protecting public resources and rebuilding trust in government require urgent action,” Joekai emphasized in the letter.
