The Public Service Commission has accused Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry of spreading disinformation with malicious intent. Chaudhry recently criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for hosting a lavish party for ministers and their spouses at the Grand Pacific Hotel, calling it insensitive to poverty-stricken Fijians.
In response, PSC Chairman Luke Rokovada clarified that the event Chaudhry referred to was a Permanent Secretaries Retreat, not a party. The retreat, which included a one-night stay at the Pearl Resort in Pacific Harbour last month, was described as a capacity-building and team-building exercise rather than a “picnic.”
Rokovada explained that the sessions at the retreat focused on leadership, innovation, and future planning, challenging the Permanent Secretaries to discuss their vision for Fiji up to 2030 and beyond. Key topics included diversity and inclusion, data collection and cybersecurity awareness, the HIV/AIDS crisis, and modernizing Fiji’s bureaucratic system.
He emphasized the importance of these retreats for bringing the Permanent Secretaries together due to their demanding schedules. The sub-committees involved in these discussions are dedicated to addressing various challenges, such as removing red tape, the future of work, HIV/AIDS, and reducing waste.
Rokovada criticized Chaudhry’s suggestion that the retreat was merely an opportunity for enjoyment as ill-advised and irresponsible. The PSC also noted that the retreat was cost-effective compared to previous ones under the FijiFirst Government, which included longer stays at more expensive resorts.
Additionally, Rokovada mentioned the Civil Service Day celebration held on July 5, which was conducted without an allocated budget. The event featured community service activities, a wellness program, and public information sessions, aimed at promoting government programs and policies to the public. The public turnout was positive, providing meaningful engagement and insight into the civil service.