Pio Tikoduadua, the Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, has announced his intention to step aside temporarily to facilitate an inquiry into the unauthorized issuance of passports to members of the Grace Road Group. In his statement, Tikoduadua revealed that he has informed the Prime Minister of his decision and is currently awaiting guidance.
He expressed concern about potential unauthorized passport issues involving the children of individuals connected to the Grace Road human rights allegations. According to Tikoduadua, these passports seem to have been issued without his knowledge, without the approval of the Permanent Secretary, and lacking authorization from senior management within the Department of Immigration.
Tikoduadua emphasized that if these claims are verified, they would signify a serious breach of the Ministry’s protocols and indicate substantial concerns regarding internal oversight within the department. He highlighted the gravity of the situation and its possible implications for the nation’s integrity and international reputation.
To address this issue, Tikoduadua has called for an immediate and comprehensive investigation to uncover how this lapse occurred and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. He reiterated his commitment to the people of Fiji, promising to uphold the highest standards of governance. Tikoduadua assured the public of his full cooperation with the investigation, emphasizing his focus on rebuilding trust that may have been jeopardized.
In summary, this proactive approach by Minister Tikoduadua demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accountability within the government. By stepping aside during the investigation, he aims to uphold the integrity of the Ministry and restore public confidence in its operations, highlighting the importance of ethical governance in Fiji.
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