Unity Fiji leader Savenaca Narube has urged Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to “stop the legal drama,” warning that a string of government-led court battles is draining taxpayers’ money and diverting attention from urgent national priorities. In remarks that mark the latest public criticism from the opposition, Narube singled out recent controversies involving the Commission of Inquiry, proposed constitutional changes and developments at the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) as evidence of poor legal judgment at the highest level of government.
Narube acknowledged Mr Rabuka’s statement in Parliament that he was personally responsible for key decisions, but said leadership demands more than ownership—it requires accountability. He accused the Prime Minister of making legal choices that lacked proper process and of pursuing appeals despite legal advice to the contrary, arguing that public funds should not be used to settle what he described as matters driven by personal grievance. Narube specifically criticised the government’s handling of the Malimali case, alleging that "legal processes were not properly followed from the outset."
The Malimali case has been a focal point of contention. Earlier reporting and court rulings have underscored the controversy around the dismissal of former FICAC commissioner Barbara Malimali, with the High Court previously finding aspects of that dismissal unlawful. Narube’s intervention comes as the government continues to move cases and appeals through the courts, prompting calls from legal groups and civil society for clarity on procedure and adherence to statutory requirements.
Narube also raised concern about the continued vacancy in the Attorney-General’s office following the dismissal of Graham Leung, suggesting the absence of a substantive legal head in government may be exacerbating delays in key legislation and contributing to inconsistent legal strategy. He warned that without clear legal leadership, the administration risks further costly missteps and weakened governance.
The Unity Fiji leader said the ongoing legal disputes are distracting the Government from pressing issues such as service delivery and broader national challenges. He urged a prompt refocus on governance, essential services and rebuilding public confidence, arguing that protracted courtroom fights undermine trust in institutions and in the use of public resources.
Narube’s comments add to mounting scrutiny of the government’s approach to legal and constitutional questions. Earlier this year, the Fiji Law Society and others urged compliance with Judicial Services Commission recommendations concerning FICAC’s leadership, while a number of Commission of Inquiry-related matters were forwarded to prosecutorial authorities for legal advice. The latest criticism from an opposition leader underscores that the legal controversies are not only ongoing but are increasingly framing public debate about accountability and the cost of government litigation.
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