The Public Service Commission has condemned the disinformation spread by Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry, describing it as malicious.
Earlier this week, Chaudhry criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for hosting a lavish party for ministers and their spouses at the Grand Pacific Hotel, calling it an affront to poverty-stricken Fijians struggling to afford a decent meal.
PSC Chairman Luke Rokovada clarified that the event in question was actually a one-and-a-half-day Permanent Secretaries Retreat held last month, which included an overnight stay at the Pearl Resort in Pacific Harbour. He emphasized that the retreat was a capacity and team-building exercise, not the “picnic” Chaudhry described.
Rokovada explained that the sessions at the retreat focused on leadership, innovation, and future planning, challenging Permanent Secretaries to outline their vision for Fiji up to 2030 and beyond. Topics discussed included diversity and inclusion, data collection and cybersecurity awareness, the HIV/AIDS crisis, and modernization of Fiji’s bureaucratic system.
These retreats are crucial for bringing together Permanent Secretaries, given the demanding nature of their work and their tight schedules, according to Rokovada. The sub-committees involved are dedicated to important challenges, including removing red tape, planning the future of work, addressing the HIV/AIDS crisis, and eliminating waste.
Rokovada criticized Chaudhry’s remarks as ill-advised and irresponsible, pointing out that the retreat was more cost-effective compared to previous ones under the FijiFirst Government, which involved 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 included community service activities, a wellness program, and public information sessions aimed at promoting government programs and policies. He noted that public turnout and engagement were positive, allowing citizens to gain a better understanding of the civil service.