Concerns over transparency, financial accountability, and leadership integrity have been raised by a former vice-president of the Porirua Multicultural Council (PMC), prompting a public response from the organisation’s current executive team.
Andrés Proaño Valencia, who served on the PMC board from August 2024 to October 2025, alleges a series of governance failures within the council, including the mishandling of funding, improper conduct during board elections, and poor treatment of staff. In a detailed letter shared with Porirua News, Proaño said that delays, unspent grant money, and leadership dysfunction contributed to his departure from the board.
Multicultural Council and outgoing Vice-President.)
At the heart of the dispute is an alleged $40,000 in community funding from three funders, including Porirua City Council, which Proaño claims was not allocated or used as intended. He also described an unresolved rent refund, a failure to pay a contracted employee on time, and alleged breaches of the council’s constitution during the October 2025 Annual General Meeting.
“These are not just administrative delays – they impact our community and reflect poorly on an organisation meant to support it,” Proaño wrote.
In response, the PMC issued a formal statement strongly rejecting the claims, describing them as “unsolicited” and “based on [Proaño’s] own opinions.” The statement asserted that all financial and governance matters were properly handled and transparently presented at the AGM, which was “lawfully endorsed by members.”
“During his tenure, Mr Proaño Valencia repeatedly disregarded organisational protocols,” the statement said, adding that the Council has since resumed its work “with unity and focus.”
PMC President Rowena Lopesi noted that the organisation remains committed to strengthening governance and constitutional compliance, and reaffirmed the group’s intent to maintain transparency with members and funders. However, the Council did not directly address the issues of unspent funds or the rent and employment disputes raised.
Proaño maintains he is still a member of PMC and welcomes discussion with others who want to seek greater transparency.
This is a developing story. Further updates will follow as more information becomes available.