Minister for Foreign Affairs Sakiasi Ditoka emphasized that Fiji’s legacy will be determined not by its infrastructure or political victories, but by the manner in which its governance is conducted. His remarks come in the wake of ongoing scrutiny surrounding the Coalition Government’s handling of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) process.
In a recent statement on social media, Mr. Ditoka asserted that the Government is acting within legal boundaries and is dedicated to upholding the constitutional principle of separation of powers, despite facing significant public debate and political pressure. He stressed that while differing opinions are a common aspect of democracy, it is crucial that politicians respect legal and constitutional processes rather than undermine them.
“There will always be differences of opinion, but the courts and the constitutional bodies established to determine the way forward will have the final say — and that is democracy at its finest,” he remarked. Mr. Ditoka pointed out that the current Coalition Government inherited a Constitution that they did not participate in drafting, which complicates the reform process. “It cannot be changed casually,” he stated, referencing a recent Supreme Court decision that has opened a lawful pathway for reform.
Reflecting on the challenges faced during their time in government, Mr. Ditoka described the reform journey as difficult and sometimes uncomfortable but essential for restoring integrity in governance. He acknowledged the struggles encountered along the way, indicating that democracy can be a challenging endeavor, often laden with discomfort.
The Minister reaffirmed the Coalition Government’s commitment to serving all Fijians, stressing that their efforts are not driven by political gain but by a dedication to governing with integrity, courage, and respect for the populace. “We are men and women of our word,” he declared, promising to continue striving for a better Fiji for everyone, irrespective of political affiliation.
Mr. Ditoka concluded by highlighting that meaningful governance is rarely glamorous but its positive impact will be felt beyond the current political landscape. “This work isn’t flashy. But it is real. We are fixing what was broken while still delivering,” he said, underscoring that history will evaluate not just what was built, but the quality of governance in Fiji.
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