Opposition Member of Parliament Premila Kumar has voiced significant criticism against the government, accusing it of breaching its commitment to change and eroding public trust through questionable appointments to high public offices. In a definitive statement, Kumar specifically highlighted the appointments of Attorney-General Graham Leung and Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga, emphasizing that the government appears to have prioritized political loyalty over merit and integrity.
Kumar articulated her concerns by stating, “This is the inevitable result when you appoint incompetent advisors,” asserting that essential due diligence and integrity checks have been disregarded. She underscored her apprehensions regarding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), particularly due to her “controversial record in Tuvalu.” This sentiment resonates with her previous criticisms where she also flagged Malimali’s controversial selection amid an ongoing inquiry that questions her leadership capabilities.
Furthermore, Kumar expressed dismay over the recent promotion of the current Acting Commissioner of Corrections, who was elevated without transparent justification over a sitting Deputy Commissioner. “These decisions erode public trust,” she lamented, warning that the growing perception of politicized institutions endangers Fiji’s democratic framework.
Highlighting the role of the Constitutional Offices Commission and the Judicial Services Commission, Kumar stressed that these bodies were established to ensure competence, independence, and accountability. However, she claimed these institutions now seem to be serving political interests rather than the public good, which could have long-term consequences if not addressed.
Kumar’s remarks not only reflect prevalent public frustration regarding governance but also present an opportunity for potential reform. By calling for transparency and a commitment to merit-based appointments, her critique may inspire the government to reassess its current practices. There is hope that through these necessary discussions, the administration will prioritize accountability and integrity, which could ultimately restore confidence among the citizens of Fiji.
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