Amidst mounting public scrutiny over the timing of a US$192,000 purchase of a BMW for Prime Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) has stepped forward to defend the decision.
The move comes as living expenses surge, stirring debates across various sectors.
A shift towards sustainability
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the OPM underscored that the acquisition of the BMW serves as a replacement for a US$300,000 Mercedes procured during the Ingraham administration in 2011.
Notably, the Mercedes had been utilized by four prime ministers over its tenure.
The statement emphasized a pivotal shift in government policy towards sustainability, with the selection of an electric vehicle for the Prime Minister’s Office.
It outlined the advantages of electric vehicles in terms of environmental impact and long-term cost efficiency.
Addressing security and operational needs
Acknowledging concerns raised following leaked documents regarding the transaction, the OPM clarified that the chosen BMW is currently undergoing customization to meet stringent security and operational requisites necessary for transporting a prime minister.
Additionally, it was revealed that a Lexus, slated for use, is undergoing repairs, rendering it temporarily unavailable.
To ensure uninterrupted official duties, a temporary loaned BMW has been deployed.
Future plans and durability
The OPM further elaborated on plans for vehicle rotation, highlighting the repaired Lexus and the newly acquired BMW as the primary vehicles in the rotation cycle.
Acting Press Secretary Keishla Adderley emphasized the demanding nature of the prime minister’s schedule, asserting the necessity for vehicles capable of coping with such rigor.
She said the new car is also expected to last at least ten years.
