The Opposition is urging Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to promptly release the full report from the Commission of Inquiry (COI), emphasizing that a delay could severely undermine public trust in both the government and the rule of law. Opposition MP Jone Usamate expressed concern over the serious findings of the COI and highlighted the vital need for transparency, stating that it is critical for leaders to act in the best interests of the people.
Usamate pointed out that while the COI chair, Justice David Ashton-Lewis, referenced nine individuals in his statements, he did not specifically name any MPs. “If some are in leadership, who are these people?” Usamate questioned, reiterating the public’s right to know if their leaders are acting honorably.
He firmly urged the Prime Minister to fulfill governmental promises regarding transparency and release the report for public assessment, insisting, “If this report is not released and the Government does nothing, confidence in our institutions will be severely damaged.” According to Usamate, protecting institutional integrity and public trust is a priority that must be maintained.
This call for transparency aligns with previous statements from Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu and others who have stressed the importance of releasing the COI report. Seruiratu earlier argued that withholding such critical information could hinder national progress and erode public trust, urging the government to demonstrate its genuine commitment to openness. Similar sentiments were echoed by leaders from other political factions, reinforcing the collective desire for accountability and ethical governance.
The atmosphere of scrutiny surrounding the government’s reluctance to disclose the report underscores a significant opportunity for necessary reforms that can bolster trust in Fiji’s public institutions. With various political leaders and the public advocating for transparency, there is hope that the inquiry’s findings could pave the way for much-needed progress and enhanced governance standards in Fiji.
As the situation develops, there remains cautious optimism that the focus on transparency and accountability will result in a stronger governance framework, reflecting the values of democracy and fostering a trusting relationship between the citizens and their leaders.
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