Opposition MP Premila Kumar has expressed serious concerns regarding the appointment of John Rabuku as Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions. Kumar highlighted that Rabuku was previously suspended and fined for professional misconduct by the Independent Legal Services Commission, which raises significant questions about the integrity of the justice system.
Kumar pointed out that the newly appointed Attorney General, the government’s chief legal adviser, has acknowledged Rabuku’s appointment, despite it not being sanctioned by the Judicial Services Commission or the Attorney General’s office. This situation brings into question the credibility of the vetting process for such a critical role, she stated.
She emphasized that appointing someone with a troubled past could erode public trust in legal and prosecutorial processes. Kumar questioned whether the vetting for this position was thorough and transparent, arguing that choosing an individual with a questionable record sends a detrimental message regarding the ethical standards in the legal sector.
Kumar further queried how the public can be expected to uphold the rule of law when those responsible for enforcing it have failed to meet basic ethical standards. She raised concerns about potential nepotism, wondering if this appointment was influenced by personal connections, particularly noting that the current Acting DPP had been promoted by Rabuku when he resigned from that role.
Additionally, Kumar criticized the apparent double standards in the hiring processes, where regular applicants for civil service positions must undergo strict police clearance and character checks, which seemed to have been overlooked in this case. She concluded that this appointment could have lasting repercussions on the future of the justice system and must be scrutinized to preserve public confidence.