Siromi Turaga, the Minister for Justice, commended his political party, The People’s Alliance, for its dedication to serving the community. Speaking to residents in Nabuna, Cawa, he highlighted the party’s role as a force for change in the region.
Cawa district comprises the villages of Cavaga, Tavua, Nabasovi, Kade, Nabuna, and Vatulele. Mr. Turaga described The People’s Alliance as vital, stating that, although it is relatively young, it has achieved the changes that the people aspired for. He emphasized that this change has resulted in freedom for the citizens, a right granted by God and safeguarded by the 2013 Constitution.
He assured the community that the party would remain attentive to their needs. Reflecting on the 2022 election, he expressed thankfulness for the support he received from Lomaiviti. He expressed gratitude to the Cawa district for their unwavering commitment to his leadership.
The party is set to hold its Annual General Meeting on Friday, with the Minister for Agriculture planning a visit to Koro next month. Mr. Turaga acknowledged the Minister’s focus on the area, which is known for its fertile land. He encouraged local farmers to participate in the upcoming agriculture show aimed at supporting their efforts.
In his remarks, Mr. Turaga criticized the now-deregistered FijiFirst party for allegedly prioritizing its own agenda over public welfare. He pointed out that for 16 years, the iTaukei community felt marginalized, but now civil servants are experiencing the positive changes they had long awaited. The Ministry of Justice staff, who previously were primarily office-bound, have started visiting various provinces to connect with the community.
Mr. Turaga also mentioned that they are looking into the previous government’s actions, facing numerous challenges in the process. He noted that 70 cases concerning fund misuse had been sent to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) from the Housing Authority, but only one case has proceeded to court.
Additionally, Mr. Turaga and other ministers are under investigation by FICAC following the resignation of former acting commissioner Francis Pulewai. Barbara Malimali has now taken over as the substantive commissioner, indicating a new direction for the commission amidst ongoing inquiries.