Prime Minister Gaston Browne has confirmed the resignation of Comptroller of Customs Raju Boddu, who stepped down from his post this week, citing health-related stress — even as PM Browne points to what he describes as “willful neglect” linked to recent breaches in the purchase of government vehicles.
Speaking in Parliament on Wednesday, Prime Minister Browne disclosed that Boddu’s resignation comes amid an ongoing review of procurement practices within the Customs and Revenue Departments.
Several senior officers have also been reassigned as part of efforts to tighten oversight and prevent future procedural lapses.
Boddu, who served in the role for several years, says that the pressures of the job had become overwhelming and were taking a toll on his health. In his resignation letter, he said remaining in the position would only worsen his condition.
While the Prime Minister acknowledged Boddu’s years of dedicated service, he emphasized that accountability must remain paramount.
“We have to ensure that systems are respected and that the integrity of our institutions is never compromised,” Browne told the Lower House.
The resignation follows reports that vehicles were procured without full Cabinet approval, sparking concern over procedural compliance within the department.
All this comes as a comprehensive internal investigation is now underway to determine the extent of any wrongdoing.
