Lynda Tabuya, the recently ousted Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, will learn about her future within the People’s Alliance (PA) party in the next 21 days. This decision comes after a meeting held by the party’s executive committee at its headquarters in Suva to establish the framework for her disciplinary hearing.
This is not the first time Ms. Tabuya faces disciplinary action; earlier this year, she was brought before the committee due to allegations surrounding a sex and drug scandal involving another minister, which culminated in her removal as deputy leader of the party. In March, the PA issued a statement indicating that the scandal had caused “potentially irreparable damage” to its reputation.
The current situation arises from the leak of an explicit video on Christmas Eve, which shows her dancing nude, and Ms. Tabuya has confirmed its authenticity. She stated that the video was meant for her then-husband, Robert Semaan, from whom she divorced in 2016, according to a FICAC investigation. Following the incident, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka dismissed her from her ministerial position on December 26. During the recent committee meeting, Mr. Rabuka participated virtually from Savusavu.
The PA’s General Secretary, Sila Balawa, confirmed that the disciplinary process would adhere to the party’s constitution, emphasizing an independent approach to ensure fairness and confidentiality. “The disciplinary committee has 21 days to complete its work and return with findings and recommendations. We are ensuring that the process remains independent, protecting its integrity and privacy,” he stated. Ms. Tabuya will have the chance to present her perspective during this process.
While the names of the current disciplinary committee members have not been made public, previous members included significant party figures such as Minister for Lands Filimoni Vosarogo, chaired by Alefina Vuki, Finau Soqo, Lanoma Singh, and Ranjit Charan.
This situation highlights the challenges political figures face, particularly surrounding personal conduct and accountability. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining professional integrity and the potentially severe consequences when these standards are not upheld.
In summary, Lynda Tabuya’s disciplinary hearing will unfold in a structured process by the People’s Alliance over the next three weeks, allowing her an opportunity to express her side of the story amid serious allegations that have already impacted her political career. Ultimately, this case may lead to broader discussions about ethics and accountability in politics.
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