The Cabinet has expressed its unwavering support for Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka following a High Court ruling that deemed the dismissal of former Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption Commissioner Barbara Malimali unlawful.
Information Minister Lynda Tabuya announced that a Cabinet meeting was held today, where the Solicitor-General provided an update on the High Court’s decision and the legal avenues available to the Prime Minister. Tabuya emphasized that the Cabinet members unanimously agreed that any notion of Rabuka’s resignation would not be entertained.
She informed that Rabuka has a period of up to 41 days to deliberate whether to file an appeal against the ruling. If he opts to challenge the decision, the first appeal would be directed to the Court of Appeal, with a further possibility of escalating the matter to the Supreme Court.
Tabuya stressed the Cabinet’s solid stance, stating, “It was a resounding sentiment in Cabinet that we would not accept his resignation. There is unanimous support for the Honorable Prime Minister to continue to lead this country.” Furthermore, she clarified that the Prime Minister has not acknowledged any wrongdoing. Instead, he indicated his willingness to reassess his position only should a higher court ultimately find that the legal advice he acted upon was incorrect.
The Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to uphold the rule of law and the separation of powers, asserting that the Government will abide by the constitutional legal process. Following the court’s decision, the Prime Minister is set to meet with the President to discuss the Cabinet briefing and outline the next steps.
This situation highlights the current challenges facing the Fijian government, yet it also underscores the importance of legal integrity and democratic processes within the nation.
Leave a comment