Espat Speaks to News 5 on Taking Over Ministry of Home Affairs
Oscar Mira has been granted a leave of absence from his Cabinet duties as Minister of Home Affairs, effective immediately, as the Auditor General begins a three-month audit into procurement processes linked to his tenure at the Ministry of Defence.
The Office of the Prime Minister confirmed today that Julius Espat, currently Minister of Infrastructure Development and Housing, will act as Minister of Home Affairs alongside his existing portfolio for the duration of the audit. The appointment takes formal effect once Espat signs the relevant documents before the Governor General.
In a press release, Prime Minister John Briceño said the move reflects the government’s commitment to accountability. “It is important for the public to know that concerns regarding Ministerial conduct are taken seriously,” Briceño said. “Our duty is to secure value for taxpayer dollars as well as compliance with procurement regulations.”
The release noted that Mira himself requested the leave of absence. That account was confirmed by Espat, who said he was informed that Mira had offered to step aside following a conversation with the Prime Minister.
Espat said he was contacted by the Prime Minister on Saturday evening and accepted the assignment after a lengthy discussion, describing it as one of the most challenging responsibilities he is likely to face.
“It’s the most difficult task I think the country has to offer,” Espat said. “But we are up to challenges… We’ll set up a team, we’ll deal with it one way or the other.”
He said he will be seeking a full briefing to understand the ministry’s chain of command and ongoing operations before making any major moves, and acknowledged he will need to restructure his team to manage both portfolios. No specific timeline beyond the expected three-month audit period was given for how long he will hold the acting role.
When asked whether Mira made the right decision in stepping aside rather than remaining in office during the investigation, Espat said, “It’s only he who can make that decision,” Espat said. ‘Decisions that we make as politicians and as area reps don’t only affect us personally. They affect your family, the constituents you represent, your colleagues, your party, and the country.’
The audit centres on procurement processes during Mira’s tenure at the Ministry of Defence, where allegations surfaced that family members received millions of dollars in government supply contracts, with payments allegedly structured in amounts below ten thousand dollars to avoid mandatory Treasury oversight.
Mira has denied any involvement in procurement decisions.