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Senate lets panel to reopen Rasa probe
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Posted on Mar 11 1999
The Senate is likely to begin later this month or early April its fresh investigation into alleged misuse of funds of the Tinian Casino Gaming Control Commission with former House Speaker Oscar C. Rasa as its first witness to be called on the stand.
Legal counsels for the gaming commission will also be subpoenaed to appear before the Senate committee on Executive Appointments and Governmental Investigations which will conduct the oversight, chairman Sen. David M. Cing said.
The decision followed after the Senate adopted a resolution yesterday empowering the committee to reopen investigation into alleged funds misuse which was called off early last year without completing its inquiry.
The series of hearings, to be conducted amid growing animosity between parties, is expected to focus on Rasa’s employment with TCGCC and his functions while serving as its consultant.
Rasa has drawn controversy following attempts from Tinian Mayor Francisco M. Borja to terminate his $100,000-a-year contract on grounds that it was improper.
The embattled TCGCC consultant has said he welcomed the Senate investigation, but resented appearing before what he called “kangaroo hearing” and be subjected by “Senator Cing’s political agenda.”
But last week, the EAGI chair slammed Rasa for his statements attacking the reopening of the Senate oversight, prodding him “not to be afraid” as the inquiry will be for the CNMI interest.
According to the resolution, the oversight will ensure the integrity of the gaming commission and assist the legislature in future legislation as well as serve as a watchdog over the regulatory body.
TCGCC has come under fire over the last two years due to the allegations. Early last year, EAGI suspended its oversight after prime witness Paul Palmer, former executive director of the commission, suddenly disappeared.
