Renovation of the Prime Minister’s residence at Muanikau in 2017 and 2018 cost taxpayers $3.5million.

This renovation took place when the residence was occupied by the former Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama.

The revelation was made by the Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, in response to a question from Assistant Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Ratu Isikeli Tuiwailevu, regarding the total renovation cost of the Prime Minister’s residence.

“In 2017 and 2018, significant refurbishment work was carried out at the Prime Minister’s residence in Muanikau. The initial cost approved by Government tender board was $2,472,962,and the contractor was Grace Road Food Company Limited,” Mr Prasad said.

“Four variations were approved by the Government tender board, increasing the total cost to $3,530,773, which is an increase of $581,000.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka enters the official PM’s residence. Photo: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka / Facebook

“The lead consultant, Maisuria Design Limited, incurred a cost of approximately $417,000, bringing the total cost of the renovation to about $3.5 million.”

Mr Prasad claimed that when the former Prime Minister vacated the residence this year, no furniture was left behind.

He added that the recent renovation of the PM’s residence in Muanikau cost $162,000.

Opposition leader Inia Seruiratu enquired about the purpose of the question and whether there would be an investigation into the renovation.

Mr Prasad said that the public deserved access to such information and that if an investigation was necessary, it would be conducted.

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