Fiji National University Chancellor Semesa Karavaki has characterized his removal from office as a deliberate act of sabotage. This unexpected incident occurred while Karavaki was engaged in an interview with FBC News; security personnel approached him with orders to vacate the premises immediately.
During the confrontation, Karavaki sought clarification on who had issued the removal directive. A security officer stated it was their responsibility to enforce instructions, while another suggested the order was government-directed.
Karavaki has been a prominent critic of the government’s recent move to transfer the management of FNU from the Education Ministry to the Office of the Prime Minister, now under the Ministry of Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics. He has raised concerns that this shift resembles a “takeover” and poses potential risks of political interference in the university’s operations.
However, a statement from Fiji National University released late last night presents an opposing perspective. The university clarified that in 2024, both Karavaki and the FNU Council officially requested the transfer, asserting it would enhance operational efficiency and align the university more closely with national priorities.
This discrepancy in narratives has led to confusion and ignited public discussion regarding whether the transfer was a voluntary decision made by the university or an action instigated by the government. Efforts by FBC News to obtain comments from government officials are ongoing.
As this situation develops, it highlights the complex dynamics at play between governmental oversight and academic independence in Fiji, and many will be watching closely to see how this impacts the future of Fiji National University and its leadership.
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