Shadow Minister for Justice, Ketan Lal, has called on the Prime Minister to take accountability for what he describes as the Coalition Government’s ongoing violations of the 2013 Constitution. He voiced his strong objection to the recent decision made by Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, to put the Commissioner of Corrections, Dr. Nakarawa, on leave. Lal argues that this decision is not only procedurally questionable but also represents an overextension of the ministerial powers.
Lal emphasized that the Commissioner of Corrections holds an independent constitutional position appointed by the President, and therefore, is not subject to direct intervention by a minister regarding employment decisions. He pointed out that Section 137(4) of the 2013 Constitution permits the President of Fiji, based on the advice of the Constitutional Offices Commission, to suspend the Commissioner and other officials appointed under the same authority.
He criticized Minister Turaga for overstepping the boundaries of the Constitutional Offices Commission, asserting that if there were any concerns regarding the Fiji Corrections Service, a lawful approach would have involved presenting the matter to the Commission rather than forcing Dr. Nakarawa into an involuntary leave without transparency about the reasons behind the action.
Lal raised alarm about the potential endorsement of this decision by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, stating that both the Minister and the Prime Minister need to comprehend that they do not have the legal right to compel the Commissioner into such a position. He warned that such maneuvers constitute a misuse of power and risk setting a perilous precedent for political interference in autonomous institutions.
Notably, Dr. Nakarawa has reportedly not been informed of the allegations against him and disputes the legitimacy of his forced leave. Lal contended that this pattern of dismissing constitutional offices, previously exemplified by the removal of DPP Pryde and now Dr. Nakarawa, points to a troubling trend of selective governance that undermines claims of fairness and transparency from the Coalition.
Lal questioned whether the government is targeting Dr. Nakarawa for espousing professionalism and impartiality, suggesting that it may stem from discomfort with independent officers who resist political influence. He urged Prime Minister Rabuka to acknowledge these challenges to the rule of law and not to evade responsibility by claiming ignorance of the situation.
The Shadow Minister concluded by asserting that the Coalition should cease undermining constitutional offices for political expediency. He pledged the Opposition’s commitment to holding the Rabuka administration accountable and protecting the integrity of vital institutions, stressing that the health of Fiji’s democracy hinges on leaders adhering to legal boundaries and upholding the rule of law for the people who entrusted them with their votes.
This situation highlights the importance of maintaining the independence of constitutional offices in government, which is crucial to uphold democracy and governance standards. The call for accountability and clarity not only strengthens the opposition’s position but also resonates with citizens who value fair governance. It is hopeful that this debate will encourage better practices and adherence to constitutional principles within the government.
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