Auditor General’s Full Report on Mira Not Expected Until End of February

The Prime Minister, John Briceño, says he has not received the Auditor General’s report on Oscar Mira and Florencio Marin Jr and that it may not be finished until the end of February.

“We have not gotten the report from the Auditor General,” Briceño said. He said he spoke with Public Service Minister Henry Charles Usher, who was told through the public service that a preliminary report could come this month. “Apparently she will not have her report completed until the end of February.” He agreed the original 90-day audit period has elapsed.

Auditor General Maria Rodriguez had earlier said the first report, covering the alleged conflict of interest, was on schedule for the end of September.

Briceño objected to the “Mira Millions” label used by the hosts. “It’s loaded. It’s contracts to the value of millions. It’s different than just millions, because it gives the impression as if they take this million. I’m not in any way trying to defend anyone, but I think it’s to be fair.”

Asked about Mira’s fate and the Home Affairs ministry under Julius Espat, he praised both men. “Minister Espat has been doing a good job. He has brought in a renewed energy.” He added, “Oscar Mira was also doing a good job with the issue of the police.”

He explained the difference in style. “Sometimes you need somebody that has this can-do attitude: ‘Make us just get this done,’ knock down the house and build it up again. I mean it as a compliment. With his experience as an architect, he’s a good manager. We have seen a lot of improvements in the police.”

On Mira specifically, he said, “Before I could answer Oscar Mira, we just need to wait for the report.” He said he has seen Mira working on the ground and added, “I guess he needs to be able to explain to his people what really happened.”

Asked what follows the report, Briceño said, “We have to see what’s in the report and then take whatever corrective actions need to be taken.”