Siromi Turaga, the Minister for Justice, commended his political party, The People’s Alliance, for its dedication to serving the citizens.
Addressing the residents of Nabuna in Cawa, Koro, Turaga highlighted the party’s role in driving change. The Cawa district encompasses the villages of Cavaga, Tavua, Nabasovi, Kade, Nabuna, and Vatulele.
Turaga stated, “The People’s Alliance is a significant party because, although it is relatively young, it has achieved the change we aspired to.” He emphasized that this change has provided people with the freedom that is their right, as enshrined in the 2013 Constitution.
He assured the audience, “This proves our commitment to listening to the people. Before the 2022 election, a small team joined me in Lomaiviti, and I am thankful for the support we received.” He expressed his appreciation to the Cawa district for their unwavering support.
“Thank you for choosing me, someone from Kubuna-i-wai, dedicated to safeguarding Lomaiviti,” Turaga remarked. He noted that the party’s Annual General Meeting would take place on Friday, and he was grateful for the anticipated visit from the Minister for Agriculture next month, acknowledging Koro’s fertile land.
He announced an upcoming agriculture show to assist farmers, encouraging community members to seize these opportunities. Turaga also criticized the now-deregistered FijiFirst party, alleging it prioritized its own interests over the populace’s needs.
“For 16 years, the iTaukei people were marginalized, and civil servants have noticed the changes they have awaited,” he stated. He added that the Ministry of Justice staff, who previously rarely ventured beyond their offices, have now traveled to many provinces, enhancing service delivery.
Turaga mentioned ongoing investigations into the previous government, citing numerous challenges encountered. He revealed that 70 cases related to fund misuse were referred to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) from the Housing Authority, but only one case has progressed to court.
Simultaneously, Turaga and other ministers are under investigation by FICAC, which recently saw the resignation of former acting commissioner Francis Pulewai. Barbara Malimali has assumed the role of substantive commissioner, affirming that “there’s a new commissioner” in reference to the continuation of FICAC’s investigations.