Opposition member Premila Kumar has expressed strong disapproval of the government’s recent decision to place Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa on leave while an investigation is conducted. She described the action as hypocritical, pointing out a perceived inconsistency in how the government handles situations involving public officials.
Kumar noted that while Nakarawa is being temporarily sidelined to facilitate the inquiry, Barbara Malimali continues to hold her position as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) despite the ongoing Commission of Inquiry concerning her controversial selection. She questioned why one individual is removed from their role while another remains untouched, emphasizing that this situation not only undermines procedural fairness but also raises concerns about the principles of governance.
Furthermore, Kumar criticized the government for allegedly prioritizing political loyalty over competency in appointments to key positions, stating that this trend has contributed to a growing lack of public confidence in the administration. She cited issues such as political favoritism in appointments and failure to address critical national challenges, including law enforcement and rising living costs, as reasons for the erosion of public trust.
Kumar’s comments highlight significant concerns regarding governance and integrity within Fiji’s political landscape. It is essential for the government to address these issues transparently to regain public trust and ensure fair treatment for all individuals in positions of power.
In this context, there is hope that through open discussions and public scrutiny, the government can take steps to strengthen its policies and improve leadership practices, ultimately fostering a more trustworthy and effective administration.
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