The Public Service Disciplinary Tribunal has declined to reinstate the $199,000 salary of Atelaite Rokosuka, the suspended permanent secretary for Fisheries and Forestry. Ms. Rokosuka faces two counts of misconduct after allegedly failing to heed legal counsel from the Solicitor-General’s Office, and not consulting the necessary ministries and departments nor adhering to due process before signing an agreement with Infinite Power Clean Energy (Fiji) Pte Ltd on behalf of the government.
Her case was brought before the tribunal following the allegations, and her salary was halted on October 15, 2024. On November 7, she appealed to the tribunal to restore her salary temporarily, citing pressing debts, and submitted a statement of her financial obligations. However, the tribunal expressed concern about the unclear details regarding the nature of her loans, questioning whether they were for home, vehicle, or other purposes. They pointed out that Ms. Rokosuka failed to provide sufficient information about her financial situation apart from her responsibilities to her two children and did not clarify if she had any other sources of income or support from family.
The tribunal underscored the severity of the allegations against Ms. Rokosuka, emphasizing the high standards of accountability expected from individuals in her position as permanent secretary, in accordance with section 127 of the Constitution.
This situation highlights the importance of accountability and adherence to procedural guidelines, especially for high-ranking officials. While it is a challenging time for Ms. Rokosuka, it presents an opportunity for her and others in similar positions to reflect on the responsibilities that come with public service roles, reinforcing the need for transparency and compliance with legal advice.
As this case unfolds, it reminds us that public officials are held to high standards, ensuring that the integrity of the government is maintained.
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