Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has called for the prompt release of the full Commission of Inquiry (COI) Report, arguing that the government’s failure to make this critical information public is eroding public trust. Seruiratu emphasized the importance of transparency in democratic governance, insisting that every Fijian has the right to access information that influences decisions affecting their lives.
“Transparency forms the bedrock of our democratic system, and withholding such a report not only undermines public trust but also obstructs our national progress towards informed accountability,” he stated. His remarks come ahead of the upcoming introduction of the Code of Conduct Bill and the Transparency Bill, which he described as crucial opportunities for the government to demonstrate its genuine commitment to openness.
Previously, similar sentiments were echoed by other political leaders. For instance, Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry and members from various political factions have raised concerns about the government’s lack of transparency regarding the COI report. They highlighted that failing to disclose the full findings not only jeopardizes public trust but also stifles national discourse on necessary reforms.
As Seruiratu reiterated his request for the government to prioritize the COI report’s release, he voiced that doing so would reinforce Fiji’s collective commitment to a transparent and accountable future. There’s hope that greater clarity on the report’s contents could pave the way for meaningful reforms and strengthen governance standards, enhancing the integrity of public institutions in Fiji. The anticipation surrounding the COI report signals a mutual aspiration among political leaders and citizens alike for a more transparent and accountable governance framework that reflects the values of democracy.
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