The Public Service Commission (PSC) has retracted the nomination of Pita Wise for the role of Head of Mission in Japan. PSC chairperson Luke Rokovada announced last night that the decision was made at the discretion of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
Mr. Wise had voluntarily stepped down from his position as permanent secretary on September 25, citing personal reasons. Prime Minister Rabuka confirmed that his office received an allegation of sexual harassment against Mr. Wise, which was subsequently referred to the PSC.
Mr. Wise was expected to replace Filimone Waqabaca, who is set to become the head of the Fiji Development Bank. Just last Friday, the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre and the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement urged the Coalition Government and Prime Minister Rabuka to withdraw Mr. Wise’s nomination for ambassador to Japan.
Mr. Wise served as the permanent secretary for the Office of the Prime Minister since January and has held similar positions in previous administrations.