Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has assured former Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) acting deputy commissioner Francis Puleiwai that she has nothing to fear from his government and emphasized that it is safe for her to return to Fiji.
Rabuka made these statements during a media conference where he expressed skepticism regarding the credibility of a recent interview Puleiwai conducted with ABC Australia, which has not yet been aired. The interview reportedly included various claims made by Puleiwai against specific members of the judiciary and the government. An excerpt of the interview was briefly posted on social media by Alexandra Forewood before it was taken down hours later.
In response to inquiries from The Fiji Times, ABC stated that an excerpt of the interview aired on their news channel on September 27. A spokesperson mentioned that they are still gathering information for the complete story and that a publication date has yet to be finalized.
The ABC did not clarify who had access to the full interview or if Forewood, who called for a press conference on Puleiwai’s behalf, was provided with a copy of the video. Additionally, the broadcaster did not comment on whether Forewood facilitated the interview.
Puleiwai has not responded to questions regarding Forewood’s motives for organizing the press conference on her behalf. Forewood, a former citizen of Fiji, has been filing complaints against several government ministers and parliament members with FICAC in recent months.
Rabuka noted that he has not received any police reports concerning the threats that Puleiwai mentioned in the interview. “It would not come from the government that I lead; who is she afraid of?” he questioned. He indicated that the police have stated no reports have been filed and highlighted that the ABC had questioned the credibility of some information disclosed in the interview.
The Prime Minister further emphasized that Fijians are encouraged to report or take action against any government members if necessary. “I believe we are safe. If there’s anyone under the greatest threat, it’s me, and I have not felt any threat,” he added.
Addressing the delay in the government’s response to the FICAC controversy, Rabuka explained that the process must adhere to the law and is under the authority of the Judicial Services Commission, not the government or the Constitutional Offices Commission.
When approached for a comment, Puleiwai stated she would wait until the inquiry is concluded before making any statements. Regarding the identities of those she claims are threatening her, she declined to disclose them, citing concerns for the safety of her loved ones in Fiji.