Opposition MP Jone Usamate is demanding accountability from Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka following a High Court ruling that deemed the dismissal of Barbara Malimali unlawful. Usamate’s comments arise from concerns regarding why the Prime Minister has not faced scrutiny for his actions.
In a statement released yesterday, Usamate criticized Rabuka for placing himself in a legal predicament reminiscent of former Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama, who was previously disqualified from Parliament. “This is no longer about a difference of opinion between lawyers in New Zealand. It is a documented breach of the Crimes Act and a failure to uphold the standards of the delayed Code of Conduct,” Usamate stated.
Referencing Section 139 of the Crimes Act regarding abuse of office, Usamate pointed out that the High Court has already established that Malimali’s removal was both unlawful and not within Rabuka’s authority. “The High Court has already done the heavy lifting for the prosecutors,” he asserted.
Usamate also expressed concerns about Rabuka’s statement indicating that the decision was solely his. “The Prime Minister says, ‘This one I made on my own.’ In a criminal court, that isn’t transparency. It is a confession. He has pinned the liability to his own chest,” he remarked.
He emphasized that good intentions cannot justify illegal actions and called for equitable treatment under the law. “Why then is the Prime Minister not being investigated and prosecuted on this matter? Why are leaders being treated differently? Why is the will of the people not being put first?” Usamate challenged, highlighting what he believes to be a disparity in the treatment of political figures.
This situation raises significant questions about accountability and the rule of law in political office, indicating a call for greater scrutiny over the actions of those in power.
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