Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has assured that he will step in if necessary regarding the alleged unauthorized issuance of Fijian passports related to children of individuals associated with the Grace Road Group, which has been implicated in human rights allegations. Rabuka stated he would take action should Home Affairs and Immigration Minister, Pio Tikoduadua, decide to step aside for investigations.
Tikoduadua, who is currently in Australia, disclosed that the passport issuances occurred without his knowledge, as well as lacking approval from the permanent secretary and senior management of the Department of Immigration. He has expressed his willingness to step aside if recommended by the Prime Minister, who has indicated that he will withhold a decision until after their scheduled meeting on Monday.
In the meantime, Amelia Komaisavai, the Director of Immigration, was placed on leave pending the investigation into the passport issue.
Grace Road Group has publicly denied allegations of wrongdoing, claiming the situation has been sensationalized and that children born in Fiji are entitled to citizenship without requiring authorization from the ministry. They allege that the controversy emerges from political targeting and a misapplication of applicable laws.
Separately, an investigation by the Ministry of Employment has identified violations of the Employment Relations Act and the Health and Safety at Work Act at Grace Road’s operations across Viti Levu. The Line Minister, Agni Deo Singh, has emphasized the critical nature of compliance with Fiji’s employment laws for both local and migrant workers, urging Grace Road to address any identified breaches.
This unfolding situation reflects the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in handling serious allegations. As investigations progress, it may usher in significant reforms and instill greater public trust in administrative processes, ultimately benefiting all stakeholders involved.
Summary:
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is prepared to intervene in the ongoing investigation surrounding unauthorized passport issuances connected to the Grace Road Group, should Minister Pio Tikoduadua step aside. Tikoduadua asserts the passports were issued without his knowledge. Meanwhile, Grace Road refutes the allegations, while the Ministry of Employment is addressing violations of employment laws in their operations.
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